For the first time in our history, we spend more time with our screens than with people. The average person checks their phone approximately 150 times in 16 hours. Our devices are contributing to stress with feeling worse, jealous, depressed, and annoyed after checking updates. We are addicted to technology. The more plugged into things we get, the more disconnected to nature and to our souls we become. It seems we live in a world of smartphones and dumb people.

In the age of speed, I think that nothing could be more invigorating than going slow. In the age of distraction, what could feel more luxurious than paying attention? I learned this on El Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage and spiritual quest that others had taken in Northern Spain for more than a thousand years. While preparing for a journey, you own the journey; once you step onto the path, the journey owns you. Life slowed as I walked an average of 20 miles a day, day after day after day. Lessons and messages began appearing around every corner, and reflection became an everyday activity. And in the silence of my weeks, I began to hear the clear voice inside of me.

Whether it was hiking through the sun gate on top of Machu Picchu, or trekking through Mount Kailash on the high Tibetan plateau, all the hikes of my life have nourished my mind, body, and soul in ways I find impossible to replicate elsewhere.

Here are a few reasons to lace up your shoes, put on your backpack and look forward to outdoor adventure.

1. Hiking keeps you present.
According to the ancient Roman philosopher Seneca, to be truly happy is to enjoy the present moment, and I have to admit he knew what he was talking about. It’s hard not to be present when it’s just you and the world, one foot in front of the other, breathe in, breathe out. You can just be.
Additionally, walking or hiking meditation is a common Buddhist practice wherein the goal is simply to walk and be present with every step we take. While more traditional seated forms of meditation aren’t for everyone, a long hike helps still the mind that’s constantly thinking about what we have to do next. It’s one of the best gifts you can give yourself.

2. Hiking puts nature into perspective.
Up mountains, over hills, along plains, and through forests, hiking is a great — and increasingly rare — opportunity to get in touch with nature. It’s a pertinent reminder of how small we are and how vast and beautiful the world is. And, studies have shown that being among nature is a great stress reliever and can help lower incidences of depression.

3. Hiking invites a sense of adventure.
Hiking can be a unique way to explore a new place. My very first hike was in Mexico’s Chihuahuan Desert in Copper Canyon, Mexico, and it was a life-changing experience: we hiked all day and, climbed hills for awe-inspiring views and made our way down to the thermal springs at the bottom of Tararecua Canyon. Every minute of this adventure sowed the seeds that would lead to my love of hiking.

4. Hiking gives you space.
Physical space, of course, but more importantly the emotional and mental distance needed to momentarily place aside the pressures of balancing work, relationships, friendships, finances, and health. I’ve come to important realizations about myself while wandering. Alternatively, I’ve gone hiking and let my thoughts dance from the mundane to the ludicrous. And that’s OK too; both are necessary. But both require space.

5. Hiking fosters relationships.
This year I have plans to hike Mount Shasta in Northern California and the highlands of Scotland with mis amigos del alma – friends of my soul. Hiking gives us an opportunity to drop down into a sacred space and affords me the opportunity to have meaningful dialog with those that I love.

Everyone wants to reach the top of the mountain, but happiness and growth occur while you’re hiking it. Happy Trails!

Have any Feng Shui questions? Feel free to contact me at michelle@michellecromer.com and sign up for your Power Color or visit me on Facebook at Michelle Cromer Feng Shui.