The author, who moved from Florida to Denver, emphasizes the transformative power of hiking over simple walks. Hiking brings physical benefits, such as challenging leg muscles and heart, improving balance and strength. Mental benefits include increased happiness, reduced stress, and deeper social connections. Walking in nature, compared to city settings, is linked to decreased anxiety and less brain activity tied to depression. The author suggests the practice of “forest bathing” – concentrating on natural surroundings to increase relaxation.










