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I Learned the Hard Way: 3 Critical Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Hike

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 Where do we begin when starting out with a hike? It can seem very simple, yet we also find out that there are many different ways to start! I know I definitely learned the hard way. The very first time I hit the trail, I fell. I had absolutely no bandages on me—something so simple that would have gone a long way for my recovery. To make matters worse, I wasn't wearing proper footwear, and I was completely unprepared for the weather when the skies opened up and it started raining. Through those rough moments, I realized there are so many factors to take into consideration when going for a hike. Fortunately, there is a simple way to break it all down whether you are getting ready for your first trail or your 100th journey! 🗺️ First and Foremost: Start With a Plan! Before your boots ever touch the dirt, you need to establish a distinct timeline. Ask yourself: How long do you plan on hiking for? An hour, a couple of hours, or maybe even the whole day? Once you know your timeline, you...

How a Post-Work Walk Breaks My Brain Fog (and Why You Have the Time, Too)

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Important takeaways from nature can be summed up in just a few powerful states of being: self-awareness, grounding, inner peace, wellness, and health. There are times when we might not feel like we can squeeze in a quick walk or hike, yet you can certainly surprise yourself otherwise. Lately, I have been in a bit of a weekly funk. I get home from work feeling tired, drained, and completely overwhelmed by the thought that I don't have enough time to do what needs to be done. But I’ve been pushing myself to change the pattern. Instead of collapsing onto the couch, I’ve been forcing myself to head to my local rail trail to get at least a single mile walk in. 🥾 Pushing Past the "No Time" Trap The funny thing about nature is how it tricks your momentum. Once my feet hit the dirt, a mile turns into two, and before I know it, I look down and find myself reaching 4 miles by the time I am done. While walking, I experience an almost immediate shift: ● Mental Clarity: The heavy wei...