LiveWell Vermont

  Have you every gone for a walk in nature and come back feeling refreshed and happier? You're not imagining things, being in nature can relieve stress. Hiking and walking can also give you endorphins which make you happier! Not only is hiking a great form of exercise, studies are showing that hiking can boost your creativity and problem-solving skills. Being in nature also allows you to connect with yourself and your surroundings which can elevate your mood.  If you need more convincing, hiking also can help increase your Vitamin D levels, reduce insomnia, burns calories, increases your energy, and helps improve your overall health! Vermont has a lot of great trails to hike so plan some outdoor adventures this year!

Do you love hiking and want to make sure you're prepared on the trail? Make sure you have these essential items on your next hike.   1.) Appropriate footwear. For shorter hikes, trail shoes are great, but for longer hikes or if you're carrying a heavier backpack a more supportive hiking shoe/boot will be beneficial. 2.) Map/Compass. Having a map and compass with you in case you get lost and in case your GPS fails, is essential. 3.) Extra water and/or a way to purify water. When you become dehydrated, your body can't perform well. Be sure to pack plenty of water. 4.) Extra food. It's always a good idea to have extra food on hand in case you get lost, you want to spend a little more time by a stream you found, the terrain was more difficult than expected and you need to keep your energy up, etc. 5.) Rain gear and extra clothing. The weather can be unpredictable especially if you're changing altitudes throughout your hike. Dressing in layers can help, av...