For me the best way to de-stress, unclutter the mind and strengthen the body is to take a hike out in the woods. It’s so peaceful to be away from everything, phone off (normally…lol), enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. There are plenty of beautiful places nearby so there’s always somewhere different to go, but I do have a favorite short hike that I do often. I’m looking forward to a snowy winter as it puts a whole new perspective on things!

I enjoy hiking alone when I need to clear my mind during or after a particularly stressful time. Just listening to the wind blowing through the trees and a stream flowing nearby can be very soothing. Sometimes all it takes is a few minutes on the trail to bring a little clarity. Things in life tend to get rushed and it’s important to take time to slow down as often as possible. It’s much easier to focus on what needs to get done after a bit of a “life detox” as it were.

If solo hiking isn’t your thing, you can find local hiking groups who have weekly planned hikes, which can also be fun, and most trail maps can be found online and downloaded. As John Muir said “The mountains are calling and I must go….”