Nature walking offers mental and physical health benefits

Walking in nature offers significant benefits for cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and mental well-being. Engaging in outdoor activities, such as walking for approximately 30 hours per week, can lead to profound improvements in mood by stimulating the release of endorphins and serotonin while regulating circadian rhythms through natural light exposure.

To maintain safety during forest walks, particularly for older adults with more fragile skin, practical precautions against insects and ticks are recommended. Effective strategies include wearing long, breathable trousers, tucking pants into socks to create a physical barrier, and choosing light-colored clothing to make parasites more visible. Additionally, using repellents containing active ingredients like icaridin or DEET can provide essential protection.