Hiking is one of the most suggested exercises by health specialists for women and everyone else. There are many benefits of hiking and some of these are weight loss, relieving back pain, decrease in blood pressure and helping to prevent osteoporosis. My vacation to Utah gave me an opportunity to experience the positive impact of hiking on the human body.
It was in the early fall when my husband and I went to Arches National Park located near Moab, Utah. We decided to go after seeing some great photos of it on the Internet. We were anxious to visit a place where we could enjoy the wonder of mother nature. The unique formation of rocks in this place is a must see destination for tourists around the world. The Arches National Park Visitor Center is the best first stop if you want to know what not to miss and how to use your time well. Watch the orientation film and see the exhibits because these will give you tremendous information and guidance.
The photo above is called "Delicate Arch" and this is the icon of the state of Utah. My experience in seeing this beautiful arch was quite exhilarating. It was suggested that sunset is the best time to unravel the beauty of this specific arch and so we did. To see it we had to hike 1.5 miles each way to get there. The hike was moderately strenuous according to the hiker description but it felt like twice that far because we had to walk slowly up on slick rock with some exposure to heights. I saw several people stopping and catching their breath as they went along their way. I think water is your best friend on this hike so don't forget to bring at least 1 quart per person. My anticipation to finally see the arch grew with each panting breath. But when my husband and I finally got to the top and saw this beautiful arch I suddenly felt the burden was lifted and all exhaustion had gone to the wind as I stared at the most wonderful creation of nature.
This is "Landscape Arch" and I think this is the most delicate arch in Arches National Park because of its thin shape. My husband and I hiked .8 mile each way to get there. We did it early before the sun was up. The hike was much easier compared with "Delicate Arch" and maybe because of the cool temperature and much easier terrain. We saw a group of mule deer and some chipmunks on our path as we went along. To my surprise I felt excited to see and be near these wild creatures. I think we made the right decision to go early in the morning to see the arch because it wasn't crowded and the sun is in perfect position to get a great picture. The geologists believe that the stone arch is unstable and continually breaking off bits and pieces so nobody knows for sure how long this beautiful arch will remain intact. But to see it now and experience the beauty of it is something I won't forget.
Hiking At Arches National Park
Heart Disease In Women
Heart disease is the number one killer of women in America and more women die of this disease than men. Heart disease does not discriminate and everybody is vulnerable regardless of race, gender and status in life. Obesity and lack of exercise is the most common cause of heart disease but simple life changes can help prevent it. Take a look at your cholesterol level, blood pressure and weight. This can lead to heart disease if taken for granted. Making a decision today to eat healthy foods and have regular exercise can surely make a difference. Engaging in a healthy lifestyle by not smoking, eating more fruits and vegetables, and exercising can lower your chances of getting this disease.
There are thousands of ways of taking good care of your heart. Usually women behave differently than men and that also includes matters of the heart. Women have different symptoms when having a heart attack. For most women, chest pain is the most common sign and they should pay attention to this warning signal. Don't put off visiting your doctor before it becomes too late.
Knowledge is power. Even though you are fit and look healthy you may still be at risk of heart disease. In women, the accuracy of diagnosing heart disease is only 60% compared to men. So be aware of the symptoms. It's common for doctors to misdiagnose the disease in women because of its different symptoms. That's why it is very important for women to listen to their body. If you think you have heart disease, visit your doctor and receive a test as soon as possible. Start loving your heart today and give it the attention it deserves.
