Week 2 of Weekly Wellness: Hello, Sunshine
The gorgeous scene in Southern Utah’s Snow Canyon.
Getting outside can change my mood in a minute, lift my spirits, and calm my troubled mind. During the second week of January, I had planned a little getaway to St. George, Utah and wanted to spend as much time outside as possible. Weekly wellness challenge—check! With temperatures 30 degrees warmer than at home, I packed athletic wear, my mountain bike and tennis shoes, eager for adventure.
Nature Does the Body Good
Loads of research has gone into how getting outside and enjoying sunlight can improve health. Vitamin D is known to strengthen the immune system, promote bone growth, and improve sleep quality. Being in nature specifically takes it all up a notch in my book. Natural conditions promote calm, relieve stress, and typically give you an escape from digital devices and distractions.
There have been a number of studies conducted that correlate nature with lessened anxiety, improved vision and creativity, and sharpened focus, even in those with attention disorders. A natural boost in physical exercise and social interaction are byproducts of time outside, making it a fairly easy and inexpensive (usually free!) wellness boost all around.
A hiking selfie.
Environment is Everything
One of the key components to wellness for me relates to environment. St. George is a little slice of heaven with sunny skies, breathtaking red rock cliffs, and kind, friendly people. I was fortunate to experience many wellness moments in nature during my few days away with the highlights being a hike with a dear friend who happened to also be visiting and mountain biking with my husband.
One of my favorite activities, hiking, has been a godsend during COVID-19, providing socially distanced time with friends, fresh air, exercise, and time in nature. My gal pal and I snuck away for a quick stroll in St. George’s Snow Canyon. We chose the out-and-back trail to Johnson Canyon since it is typically closed from mid-March to mid-September to take advantage of January’s access. Its an easy 2-mile trek covering a lava field with views of a 200-foot red rock arch within the canyon.
Take a hike! A COVID-friendly activity.
Combining cardio and nature, my husband and I have mountain biked together for the last several years. Thanks to my in-laws babysitting, we were able to get out a few times while in in St. George. We hit up Bearclaw Poppy Trail, a classic in the area featuring a 4-mile loop. The trail is popular for all ages and offers a relatively mild uphill climb with sections of drop-offs that offer options for various skill levels.
Biking my way through St. George’s Bearclaw Poppy Ride.
I was fortunate to have many factors contribute to my wellness this week from time with loved ones, nature, exercise, and more! I’d love to see how you practiced self-care this week. What are your favorite ways to experience nature? Tag me on instagram @SLCBeautyBabe or @SpaandBeautyToday with tips and suggestions for next week.
[Images courtesy of Alisha Racker]
Alisha Racker’s beauty career has spanned over a decade as she's worked as a master esthetician, skin care PR-pro and freelance writer. She lives in the beautiful mountains of Salt Lake City with her husband and daughter. Follow her on Instagram: @alisharacker