When you engage in high-intensity walking, as you might with hiking, your body releases endorphins and serotonin – feelgood hormones – which give you a natural energy boost and trigger positive feelings in the body,’ says Dr Elena Touroni, a consultant psychologist and co-founder of The Chelsea Psychology Clinic. ‘Your body also becomes better at managing cortisol levels, helping reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety.
‘Hiking increases your exposure to sunlight and so raises your levels of vitamin D – reducing your likelihood of suffering from seasonal depression,’ adds Carla Khouri, a qualified mountain leader, outdoor instructor, and UK community lead at Merrell Hiking Club, a community that was set up to empower, inform and inspire female hikers.