| Hiking
in the Fresh Air
Although hiking has gone out of fashion in this age of technology
and motoring, I would like to call to mind some facts in defence
of this most natural sport and its wholesome effect. Many
people would not have died at 50 or 60 had they done more
walking, because this healthy and relaxing exercise releases
healing powers that benefit our body tremendously. Walking’s
invigorating movement is a vitalising exercise.
If
we wish to take full advantage of holiday time, we must walk
early in the morning at a steady pace along footpaths, through
woods and fields and, if possible, also uphill and into the
mountains. Doing this, we take in plenty of oxygen, being
forced to inhale deeply and evenly; this is a promising healing
factor, acting in time like an inner massage on the cells,
strengthening and revitalising particularly the blood vessels.
The entire cell metabolism is stimulated, and the exchange
of gases will be improved. The glands, especially the lymphatic
system, will derive great benefit from the pure, energy-laden
air. The bone marrow, too, will be stimulated to produce more
red blood corpuscles as a result of our exposure to increased
ultraviolet rays.
Most of all our nerves will find great relief in the undisturbed
solitude of Nature. Could they only speak they would shout
for joy, because the quiet and peace we can
still experience in the hills and mountains are among the
best cures for a strained nervous system. Finally to be away
from broad highways and roaring traffic is extremely important
for our nerves. It is indeed disturbing that pedestrians are
gradually losing out.
Footpaths on which years ago you could walk without fear of
noise and exhaust fumes are now asphalt roads with motor traffic.
There are relatively few footpaths left on which you are safe
from cars, motorcycles, noise and exhaust fumes. All these
changes have been to the detriment of our health.
We
should not give in, however, but persist in finding footpaths
on which we can still feel quiet exhilaration and enjoy the
aromatic scents of glorious Nature in full measure.
Extract from the writings of Alfred Vogel, published in
1983.
The
Nature Doctor
by Alfred Vogel is available in paperback, price £12.99,
at your local health store or from www.avogel.co.uk
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