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Hey all! My name is Erin Toews (pronounced “Taves”). I blog over at Toews Adventure, where my husband Kameron and I write about our travels, fun activities, and inspirations. Once our work visas get processed, we are headed to Zimbabwe for a year long mission trip. I will be a nurse at a mission hospital, and Kam will use his videography skills to make documentaries. But while we wait, we are living & hiking in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Hiking is one “little thing” I do to stay healthy physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Physical health is the most obvious benefit I get from hiking. My heart rate increases. Different muscles are used than regular walking.  I have tried running several times in my life, but I only last a couple days before giving up. With hiking, I keep going, trying different trails, and love the view at the end. Great cardio. Great muscle-toning. Great workout.

Emotional health is a major reason way I hike. Maybe even more than for the physical benefits. The fresh air clears my mind. It boosts my mood. Makes me feel alive. Although I have extrovert tendencies, I love my alone time. I get energized by getting quality “me” time. And what better place than in the middle of nowhere with no one else around. #perfection

Spiritual health is my favorite benefit of hiking. While making my way up the trails, I pray. Hiking is the ultimate prayer walk. I feel the Holy Spirit talking directly to my soul when I’m out there.  There are many verses about walking with the Lord including:

Colossians 1:10 – “so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God “

Ephesians 4:1 – “Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called.”

and

Psalm 86:11 – “Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name.”

Hiking is my favorite.

Some of my favorite places to hike are: 1) Harney Peak, 2) Romania, and 3) the Badlands.

Now it’s your turn. Where do you like to hike?