Exercise and Mental Health in Snowy Woods
This weekend, the temperature finally warmed to a comfortable 28 degrees, so we could enjoy being outside. We went cross-country skiing through dense woods following the Peshtigo River. The snow-covered woods provided tranquility and peace, which nature shared with us.
I took my time gliding on the groomed trail and was more conscious of the sound I made with my skis. I came to the woods to embrace nature's silence, but I only heard my shushing and felt like an intruder.
So, I stood still, listened, and embraced the soft quiet when I heard the pecking of a woodpecker nearby. A branch cracked from the weight of a squirrel scampering overhead. A dog barked in the distance. A Bluejay squawked.
The best sound was the river gurgling over clumps of ice along the bank. The rippling encouraged deep breathing and watching the current move. I wanted to stay.
Then, greetings like, “What a beautiful day! How are you doing? I’m behind you; I didn’t want to startle you. Finally, we can enjoy the trails!” People’s voices passed me as they wore bright-colored hats and jackets on their way to the intermediate trail.
Then, it became quiet again in the snow-covered forest on the easiest trail, which was perfect for me. I observed how green lichen grows on the north side of trees; deer tracks meandered over the groomed trail and continued to the other side. I noticed subtle textures and colors of tree trunks close together in the dense forest, varying from smooth to rough, from grays and tans to darker shades of brown. The contrast was striking against the white snow, amplifying the vertical lines across the landscape surrounding me.
According to UW Health, Randy Clark shares his top ten reasons for cross-country skiing: 1) increases cardio output, 2) uses all our muscles, 3) low-pact for joints, 4) gliding improves “kinesthetic sense” (I need that), 5) increases balance, 6) oxygenates our body, 7) visual acuity (sensing the shift in terrain), 8) builds confidence and self-esteem, 9) appreciate nature, and 10) invigorates and recharges us.
Unhurried, we continued our back-and-forth on Aspen Ridge Trail for two and a half hours and accomplished our goal. After so many cold days inside, we enjoyed spending time in nature, experiencing mental clarity, and getting physical exercise.
Do you enjoy spending time on snowy trails? Do you cross-country or snowshoe? I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to leave your comments below.
