5 Reasons to Hit the Trail From Our Friends at Get Outside Melbourne

Get Outside Melbourne’s founder Kane Ford loves getting out onto the trail and inspiring others to do so at any opportunity he gets. Kane shares with us his top 5 reasons for heading out to the bush and hitting the trail. 

Get Outside Melbourne was founded in 2019 after I decided to move away from my corporate career where I felt anxious and ‘burnt out’. After resigning from this high-pressure corporate environment I took time to evaluate what was important. I became focused on creating a life in harmony with my love of the outdoors and used my business to share knowledge and passion about the physical and mental health benefits of hiking. I often talk about the power of the trail through my social media posts and see Get Outside providing much more than simply hiking. It’s ultimately about helping people disconnect from their hectic lives and introducing them to the great outdoors in a safe and supported way. 

1. Clear your mind  

My mind is always thinking about a million different things and while I’ve tried many different activities such as yoga or meditation I find it hard to achieve those ‘zen’ vibes. Hiking is one of the few activities that enable me to clear my mind effortlessly. The act of simply putting one foot in front of the other for hours on a rocky trail is a great way to stop the ‘mind chatter’. This rhythm brings focus to your breathing and instantly makes you feel mentally lighter.

2. Hitting the trail can help support mental health 

I’ve struggled with anxiety as long as I can remember, but it’s only recently that I’ve realised hiking is my way of releasing the pressure that builds up through daily life. Don’t just take my word for it, even a short hike out on your local trail may be beneficial for your mental health. According to a 2015 study by Stanford University, spending time in natural environments helps to reduce brain activity linked to mental health issues. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, maybe it’s time to hit your favourite trail.

3. Hiking can spark creative thinking and boost your memory 

The day I resigned from my corporate job, I jumped in the car and drove to my favourite hiking spot in Victoria – the Cathedral Ranges. I was in a pretty tough mental space that day but navigating my way across the Razorback is where I questioned what I wanted in life. I asked what would make me happy and then spent the rest of my time on the trail developing the concept for Get Outside Melbourne. Being outside definitely sparks creativity and clearer thoughts. Brain researchers continue to find new evidence that exercise can increase creativity, memory and fight cognitive disorders later in life. 

4. Trees release chemicals that reduce stress – so get amongst them 

We all know trees are pretty important for humans and the environment, but did you know that our green, wild spaces are really beneficial for your brain? Chemicals released by trees and plants have been shown to reduce stress-causing molecules and improve our immune systems. Research has found that exposure to these tree chemicals, phytoncides, can reduce the stress hormone cortisol and revitalise our immune system – good news for us!

5. Hitting the trail is a great way to connect with others 

Sometimes a solo hike, where it feels like you’re the only person on earth, is a great way to recharge the batteries but the most rewarding aspect about Get Outside Melbourne is that I get to share these incredible experiences and connect with like-minded people. There is something pretty special about taking on a challenging hike with a group of friends or strangers. Pushing through a hard trail brings people together through a shared experience and there is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone smash through the ‘I can’t’ mental barriers in a safe and supported way. 

If you would like to learn more or get in contact with Get Outside Melbourne head over to their website: get-outside.com.au or follow them on Instagram and Facebook via @GetOutsideMelbourne.

ABOUT GET OUTSIDE MELBOURNE 

Get Outside Melbourne is an award-winning outdoor business designed to share the best hiking locations to adventurous visitors to Melbourne or locals wanting to explore their own backyard. Created specifically for small groups, Get Outside offers an all-inclusive experience with barista-made coffees, luxury 4×4 transport and a delicious morning tea and lunch provided with every bespoke guided experience. With a variety of locations to suit any level of experience or fitness, all you need to do is get your activewear on and we’ll do the rest. 2020 has been a challenging year for Get Outside but during COVID restrictions they have diversified their go-to-market strategy focusing on online Mental Health webinars and was recently named a Finalist at the Business Australia Awards.