Hiking: Assisting in the Pursuit of Peace Through Positive Work-Life Balance 

Tiffany Sanderson, Intern, and Christina Pay, Extension Assistant Professor

Women sitting at the top of a mountain

It is no secret that physical activity can positively correlate with improved mental health by decreasing depressive and anxiety symptoms. Hiking can also be a great way for adults to model positive relationships with physical activity for children, as well as spend quality time with family and friends. College students and families without children can also benefit from increased exercise in relation to improving individual mental health (Lackey, et al, 2019). The benefits of hiking can help to create positive mental health practices and has been affectionately called nature’s therapy.

The best part of it is that most hiking trails are free and easily accessible to the public. With well-posted signage, and accessible options for those with ADA needs, Utah is a great place to begin your hiking journey to personal wellness and health (Accessible Utah: Adaptive Adventures and Resources).

According to a research study, hiking as a family activity has been proven to increase the amount of time made for family during down time, as well as positively benefit the social construct of the family unit for all members of the family. In turn, this practice increases positive relationships as well as the ability to separate the day-to-day responsibilities of life from the enjoyment of nature and family time (Børge Baklien, 2016). The ability to distinguish between personal time and time spent doing tasks is vital to a positive work-life balance.

Another research study found that positive work-life balance is vital to the development of family relationships as well as developing a positive attitude towards personal health. As workers, we are often subconsciously aware of the feeling that comes with stretching ourselves too thin between work obligations and family needs/relationships. Positive perception of this balance can lead to an increased energy and desire to participate in physical activity for recreational and self-improvement purposes (Gregnano, et al, 2020). Having increased time for family and increased energy for physical activity can mean that families have the option to schedule time spent hiking and exercising together.

Positive Impacts of Hiking on Physical and Mental Health

Results of hiking health benefits may be immediate or take place slowly over a period of time and participation depending on the level of intensity and frequency of hiking (Mitten, et al, 2018).  Benefits include:

  • Decreased blood pressure
  • Decreased feelings of anxiety or depression
  • Increased motivation
  • Weight loss/overall health wellness
  • Positive social and emotional relationships when hiking in groups

How Can I Get Started?

With these health benefits in mind, it is time to start searching for hiking opportunities near you!

Included below are links to the Utah website for accessible outdoor opportunities, as well as popular websites for hiking information.

https://www.visitutah.com/plan-your-trip/accessible-utah

https://www.utah.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/hiking-backpacking/

https://www.visitutah.com/things-to-do/hiking

References

Accessible Utah: Adaptive Adventures & Resources. Accessible Utah | Adaptive Adventures & Resources | Visit Utah. (n.d.). Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://www.visitutah.com/plan-your-trip/accessible-utah

Børge Baklien, Borgunn Ytterhus & Rob Bongaardt (2016) When everyday life becomes a storm on the horizon: families’ experiences of good mental health while hiking in nature, Anthropology & Medicine, 23:1, 42-53, DOI: 10.1080/13648470.2015.1056056

Gragnano, A., Simbula, S., & Miglioretti, M. (2020). Work–Life Balance: Weighing the Importance of Work–Family and Work–Health Balance. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(3), 907. MDPI AG. Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17030907

Hiking in Utah. Deseret Digital Media - Utah.com. (n.d.). Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://www.utah.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/hiking-backpacking/

Hiking. Visit Utah. (n.d.). Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://www.visitutah.com/things-to-do/hiking

Lackey, N. Q., Tysor, D. A., McNay, G. D., Joyner, L., Baker, K. H., & Hodge, C. (2019). Mental health benefits of nature-based recreation: A systematic review. Annals of Leisure Research, 24(3), 379–393. https://doi.org/10.1080/11745398.2019.1655459