David Hikes

David Hikes: A blog about hiking and mental health!

  • Nature’s Therapy: Hiking and Its Profound Impact on Mental Health

    Introduction In our increasingly fast-paced and digitally connected world, mental health has become a pressing issue for millions of people. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that depression and anxiety disorders affect more than 264 million and 284 million people worldwide, respectively (World Health Organization, 2021). The demands of modern life, coupled with a disconnection…

  • Couch to 25 miles

    Here is a training plan to safely progress from a sedentary lifestyle to hiking 25 miles daily, six days a week. This is a significant increase in physical activity, and it’s essential to approach it gradually to avoid injury and burnout. Here’s a training plan to help you reach your goal safely: Phase 1: Building…

  • Hiking with Anxiety

    Hiking is an excellent way to improve physical fitness, explore nature, and reduce stress. However, the thought of hiking may be overwhelming for those who struggle with anxiety. Anxiety is a common mental health condition affecting millions of people worldwide, making even the most straightforward tasks feel daunting. Fortunately, there are several ways to overcome…

  • Hiking and Depression

    Hiking is a form of outdoor exercise that involves walking through natural landscapes, such as mountains, forests, and valleys. This activity not only provides physical benefits but also positively impacts mental health, especially depression. Depression is a mental health condition that affects people’s mood, thoughts, and behavior, making it challenging to carry out daily activities.…

  • Sunrise Hike

    Sunrise HikeBy David Newberger As the sun begins to rise,And paint the sky with vivid dyes,We lace our boots, prepare to hike,And leave behind the world we like. We step into the woods so green,A beauty that can’t be unseen.The rustling leaves, the chirping birds,All nature’s music, without words. We walk in silence, lost in…

  • An Endless Hike

    An Endless Hike By David Newberger Amidst the mountains and the trees so tall,I embarked upon a journey, with no end at all.A hike of self-discovery, a quest to find my way,To understand the depths within me, and what I had to say. The path ahead was steep and long,But I felt a sense of…

  • The connection between Depression and Anxiety

    Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health conditions affecting individuals worldwide. While they can occur independently, they often occur together, creating a vicious cycle that can be difficult to break. This article will discuss the connection between depression and anxiety and why this co-occurrence is so common. Depression is a mental…

  • Hiking First-Aid

    In addition to the basic items mentioned in a first-aid kit, it’s also important to consider other potential medical needs and emergencies. For example, if you have a medical condition or are hiking in an area with poisonous plants or animals, you may need to bring additional supplies. It’s also a good idea to educate…

  • Illumination for Hiking

    When it comes to the Ten Essentials you shouldn’t forget about illumination, it’s essential to have a reliable light source when hiking in low-light conditions. A headlamp or flashlight is an excellent choice for hands-free lighting, and a lantern is a good option for group camping or cooking. It’s essential to have extra batteries or…

  • Hiking through the Darkness of the mind

    In the darkness of the night,The hiker struggled with all might,Fighting demons of the mind,A battle of the heart and kind. With every step, a heavyweight,The journey seemed to seal his fate,But determination kept him strong,And moving forward, all day long. The trail was rough and steep and long,And doubts and fears kept singing a…