Self-Care, Self-Esteem, And Hiking
When you prioritize self-care, you're showing yourself love and respect. What better way to practice self-care than by getting out in nature and going for a hike? Talk about wonders of self-esteem
Let's talk about the amazing benefits of self-care, self-esteem, self-love, and hiking! Taking care of ourselves is so important, and it's not just about physical health, but also mental and emotional well-being. When you prioritize self-care, you're showing yourself love and respect, and that can do wonders for your self-esteem. And what better way to practice self-care than by getting out in nature and going for a hike? Hiking is not only a great form of physical activity, but it also allows you to connect with the beauty of the outdoors and clear your mind. The combination of physical activity and being in nature can have a powerful impact on your overall well-being. So, let's lace up our hiking boots and hit the trails, while also showing ourselves some love and care along the way!
As I have mentioned many times before, I am a woman in my 60s who enjoys walking solo. This habit originated many years ago when I used to accompany tourists on a daily basis. During my days off, I wanted to have the freedom of not being responsible for other people. That's why, when I relocated from the south to the north of Italy and my health declined, it wasn't difficult for me to choose to walk alone instead of joining hiking groups.
There are several advantages to organizing myself in this way: I can go out whenever I want, walk at a comfortable pace, take breaks every few steps to catch my breath, capture photos, and admire the flowers and plants. If I come across someone on the street, I stop to have a conversation—I enjoy listening to the stories shared by locals. There is no pressure to reach a specific destination—I walk until a certain time and then head back.
As someone once said, I live with myself and must accept my limitations.
At 60+, you realize that life is not eternal, that it simply is what it is, and it's important to live happily. I no longer feel the need to prove anything to anyone. If someone doesn't like something about me, that's their problem. They have to accept me just as I accept them, or we can all go our separate ways without bothering each other.
This is a form of extreme self-care and self-esteem.
This photo shows me on my 2023 birthday after an incredible climb that I had dreamed of doing for years. I was able to overcome my fears. My hair stood on end at the thought of going up. A young or healthy person maybe could finish this trail in 2–3 hours. I needed the entire day, but I DID IT!!! I gained self-esteem by reaching the top. I was tanned and extremely happy. It was an excellent birthday celebration!
By this, I mean to say that it is essential for what you do to make you happy. Hiking is a fulfilling activity: you must find an interesting destination, plan your route, and consider the possibility of reaching it. Your brain is engaged, and your body stays active. All your positive emotions contribute to your well-being. I have noticed that my eyesight suffers greatly from spending every day in front of the computer, but after going for walks, it becomes much sharper.
Let's try an experiment: look at this photo. Imagine yourself sitting on the shore, hearing the sound of water. Look at the mountain in front of you and listen to the water. Take a slow inhale, pause your breath for a moment, and exhale. Be still. Try to relax all your muscles. Focus your attention on your heart. Look at the mountain. Inhale. Take it easy.
Now, look at your face. Do you notice a smile?
Again, I'm not saying you necessarily have to take walks in the mountains, forests, and parks. You have to do what you like (I like to spend all day in front of the computer :-), and I need to use brute force to kick me out every time). Hiking is a fulfilling and natural activity for a person. And perhaps for this very reason, it brings happiness to all of us.
Be happy! Take care!