Hiking in Autumn

Why you should definitely get out now if you have RLS & polyneuropathy!

Autumn is the perfect time to lace up your hiking boots and enjoy the colorful landscapes. But did you know that hiking is not only good for the soul, but also offers a variety of health benefits? Hiking can be a real blessing, especially for people with restless legs syndrome (RLS) and polyneuropathy. In this article, you will learn why hiking in autumn is the optimal activity, how it can affect your life expectancy, and why it is becoming increasingly popular among seniors. I will also introduce you to the 10 most beautiful hiking routes in Germany.

Run yourself old – how hiking increases your life expectancy

It is well known that regular exercise is good for your health. But did you know that it can even significantly increase your life expectancy? According to a long-term study by Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston with over 16,000 participants aged 70, people who regularly do moderate exercise such as walking have a life expectancy that is up to 30% higher than their inactive peers. What is particularly impressive is that just 30 minutes of moderate activity a day is enough to significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

The calming effect of nature further enhances this effect. Contact with trees and forests, known as "forest therapy", has been shown to have positive effects on our immune system and our psyche. Phytoncides, the substances secreted by trees, strengthen our immune system and lower blood pressure. A Japanese study from 2010 showed that people who regularly spend time in forests have a 12% lower risk of mortality than those who do not.

Concentration and mental clarity – why exercise in nature strengthens your brain

It is not a new discovery that exercise is good for the mind. But did you know that hiking can be particularly beneficial for your thinking skills? A much-cited study from Stanford University in 2014 showed that walking in nature increases creativity and problem-solving skills by up to 60%. In addition, the participants' ability to concentrate improved significantly.

The reason for this is the calming effect of nature. As you walk through the forest, the natural stimuli lower your cortisol levels (the stress hormone), which in turn supports thought processes in the prefrontal cortex - the area of your brain responsible for complex thinking. People with RLS and polyneuropathy, who often suffer from stress and sleep disorders, can reduce this stress by hiking while also improving their mental health.

Hiking is very popular – especially among seniors

Hiking is no longer just a leisure activity for nature lovers - it is very trendy, especially among older people. The German Alpine Association (DAV) has seen a continuous increase in membership numbers for years, with the proportion of seniors over 60 growing particularly strongly. From 2010 to 2020 alone, the number of DAV members rose by 50% to over 1.3 million, and a large proportion of these are people in the 60+ age group.

This is no coincidence: more and more older people are realizing the health benefits of hiking. It not only promotes fitness, but also social interaction and mental well-being. Contact with nature and hiking together in groups has been shown to be particularly beneficial for the mental health of seniors.

Hiking for RLS and Polyneuropathy: A Blessing for Your Nerves

People who suffer from RLS or polyneuropathy often don't know what form of exercise might be good for them. Walking is an excellent choice as it strengthens not only the muscles but also the nerves. Regular, gentle exercise increases blood circulation, which calms the nerves and can relieve symptoms such as tingling and restless legs.

Another plus point: hiking increases the release of magnesium in the body, which is especially important for people with polyneuropathy as it prevents muscle cramps and stabilizes the nerves.

Conclusion: Your path to health is right outside your door

Hiking in autumn is more than just a fun leisure activity - it is a gift to your health. For people with RLS and polyneuropathy, regular exercise can alleviate symptoms and improve well-being. At the same time, your head also benefits, because walking in nature promotes concentration and mental clarity. Hiking is also very popular, especially among seniors, who are increasingly discovering the benefits of this gentle yet effective form of exercise. So, lace up your hiking boots and experience the golden season in the most beautiful regions of Germany! Your body and mind will thank you.

10 of the most beautiful autumn hiking routes in Germany

Germany has an incredible variety of hiking trails, which have a very special charm, especially in autumn. Here are 10 fantastic routes that are particularly worthwhile:

Malerweg (Saxon Switzerland): A classic with spectacular rock formations and colorful forests.