“Walk.” This word is almost the only term agreed upon by doctors and nutrition specialists, as they claim that walking is a remedy for every ailment. With the end of winter, walking enthusiasts are preparing to change their routes from streets and sidewalks to nature and its pathways, gaining three benefits in the process: walking in oxygen-rich air that is beneficial for the body, relieving stress which is good for the mind, and enjoying natural scenery which benefits the soul. The combination of these benefits reduces human tension and fatigue, gradually restoring energy. A nature outing does not require much planning, but it's wise to prepare for some "emergency" scenarios. Here are 8 tips for a safe walking adventure in nature:
1. Make sure your mobile phone is charged before setting out, and it's better to close some unnecessary apps to extend the battery life as much as possible. This phone is a lifeline for calling for help in case of any emergency.
2. An alternative plan is essential in everything. Familiarizing oneself with walking apps used by rescue teams, reading old paper maps, and using a compass to find the correct direction are fundamental issues when a hiker comes to a crossroads where there are no signals or directions, or when their phone loses reception. Remember, learning these things is not difficult; they are easily accessible through video tutorials on social media platforms.
3. Monitoring weather conditions is a must. Who wants to be surprised by fog in a remote area or to be scorched by the strong sun and tire quickly, turning a nature outing into a taxing adventure? Nature walking guides recommend watching for signs of heat stroke, such as excessive sweating, fatigue, and blurred vision, as well as monitoring body temperature, either rising or dropping. If any of these symptoms are suspected, one should immediately contact emergency services. It may also be helpful to inquire about the nearest clinic, hospital, or police station to the outing location, which is easy today with modern apps.
4. Hydrating the body with plenty of water and nourishing it with food before and during the outing are crucial to maintaining energy levels, so that the hiker does not suffer fatigue halfway through the trip. Carrying some sugary snacks in a backpack can save them in nature when their blood sugar drops, with sudden hunger, fatigue, and trembling being symptoms.
5. No exercise is possible without comfortable shoes. This is a golden sports rule that confidently applies to walking. Wearing comfortable, durable shoes that are resistant to dirt and water, and molded on a strong sole designed for long-distance walking, protects the feet and ankles from potential injuries, especially when walking on rough nature trails, something that a sports shoe with a soft sole does not ensure.
6. Important tools for walking adventures in nature include a whistle, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Having these tools provides additional reassurance to the hiker, even if they do not need to use them. Let’s hope they don’t need them!
7. Some people enjoy "going off the radar," as rescue workers say. This is not wise. A hiker should inform a relative or friend of their outing location and the expected return time, and agree on a way to communicate in case something bad happens.
8. When feeling in danger, the mind is the judge: the hiker should immediately call for help without hesitation. In such cases, haste is indeed safety.
