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That walking in the fresh air is a beneficial activity has always been known - and mountain trekking is no different.
On the contrary: between the pure air and the altitude differences, its unique characteristics make it the best activity for both body and mind!
Here is a list of the main benefits and advantages of mountain trekking.
Strengthens bones and joints
Already the simple movement of walking is a real panacea for bones and joints, reducing the stiffness caused by sedentariness and strengthening the bone structure (in fact, it is a highly recommended activity for both preventing and treating osteoporosis and similar diseases). In addition, the uphill and downhill slopes that mountain trekking presents strain about 90% of our body muscles, from the legs to the abdominals and arms - making the activity even more complete and stimulating than walking on the plains.
Improves cardiac activity
Walking in the mountains develops endurance in a gentle and much less demanding way than 'normal' sports: the heart rate increases and the heart becomes stronger, drastically reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and subsequent problems such as stroke and hypertension. In addition, physical activity is excellent medicine for preventing cholesterol and diabetes problems.
Improves breathing
As we have already mentioned, mountain trekking is an activity that primarily develops endurance: this also applies to breathing, strengthening - also thanks to the clean, smog- and toxin-free air - the entire pulmonary system.
Strengthens the immune system
Physical activity is the best method to prevent infectious diseases and inflammation: it makes the body gradually more resistant to the attack of viruses and bacteria (and stronger when fighting them), and by reducing inflammation it avoids the risk of complications and worsening.
Reduces stress and increases serenity
This is perhaps the main benefit of mountain trekking, and there are many elements that contribute to making it possible:
Outdoor activity and sunshine expose the body to vitamin D, which improves not only the health of the body but especially the mood;
walking allows the body to release endorphins, the hormones of happiness, leading to a general increase in the feeling of happiness and serenity;
trees release phytoncides, monoterpenes found in the bark, which, when assimilated by the human body, reduce stress and anxiety and lead to an improvement in a person's psychophysical well-being;
detachment from the hustle and bustle of the digital world frees the mind from thoughts, leading to looking at problems and blockages from a different perspective (and maybe even solving them!).
Strengthens social bonds
‘All at the same pace’: walking together in the mountains, in an atmosphere of relaxation and natural slowness, brings us back into balance with ourselves and others, fostering group unity and a spirit of cooperation, sharing and relieving fatigue.
A little curiosity: in Japan, nature walks are a real 'medical' practice, called 'shinrin-yoku', which is prescribed as a cure for countless types of illnesses and stress disorders!
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