Alison Schrag

Multi-day hiking demands more than a love for the outdoors—it’s a test of endurance, strength, and mental resilience. Preparing your body and mind for such an adventure takes thoughtful planning, a consistent training routine, and a willingness to adapt. Trails like the John Muir Trail, Appalachian Trail, and the Inca Trail are not just physically challenging but also mentally demanding, requiring hikers to push through fatigue, unpredictable weather, and tough terrain. Incorporating strength, cardio, and mental prep into your routine can make the difference between struggling through the journey and thriving in it. Simulating trail conditions beforehand gives you a clearer picture of what to expect, while injury prevention strategies ensure you stay on your feet. No matter the destination, a balanced approach to training builds not just the capability to go the distance, but the confidence to enjoy every part of the journey. 1. Understanding the Physical Demands of Multi-Day Hiking Mu...

Something about New York City pulls people in—the energy, the culture, the constant movement. But within the city’s endless buzz, some neighborhoods offer something different: a sense of calm, community, and belonging. For many, that place is the Upper West Side. Stretching between Central Park and the Hudson River , the Upper West Side combines classic New York charm with a laid-back warmth that makes it feel less like a city block and more like home. From its tree-lined streets to its iconic brownstones and neighborhood bakeries, this area embodies the balance of city life and comfort that locals cherish. A Neighborhood with Timeless Character Walking through the Upper West Side feels like stepping into a living postcard. The historic architecture tells stories of old New York, while the soft glow from corner cafés and vintage bookstores gives the area a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. Brownstone buildings framed by leafy trees create a calm rhythm that starkly contrasts the fast-paced v...

There’s a certain magic that happens when your boots hit the trail. The air feels cleaner, time slows down, and each step begins to carry meaning beyond the miles. Hiking isn’t just an outdoor hobby—it’s a full-body and full-mind experience . It challenges the muscles, steadies the breath, and sharpens the spirit in ways that go far beyond the trailhead. Somewhere between the sweat, silence, and scenery, hikers find more than just fitness—they find a renewed sense of strength, endurance, and mental clarity. Movement with a Purpose Unlike repetitive gym workouts, hiking gives your body purpose with every stride. You’re not counting sets—you’re climbing toward a viewpoint, crossing a river, or exploring a new ridge. The terrain keeps you guessing, which means your muscles stay active and alert. Uphill climbs work your quadriceps and glutes, while descents call on your hamstrings and calves. Even your arms engage for balance, and your core holds you steady on uneven paths. The beauty is t...

When most people think about running, they picture physical fitness — stronger legs, better stamina, or maybe crossing the finish line of a 5K. But beyond the sweaty T-shirts and personal records lies something more powerful: running can be a daily anchor for mental health. Whether you’re jogging at sunrise or squeezing in a quick run after work, each step has the potential to heal, calm, and reshape your mindset. 1. Turning Chaos Into Clarity, One Step at a Time Life has a way of piling up — work deadlines, family responsibilities, buzzing phones, endless news cycles. It’s easy to feel like your mind never gets a break. Running creates a unique mental space where you can step away from the noise. As your feet hit the ground in a steady rhythm, your thoughts begin to organize themselves. What felt overwhelming at the start of a run often feels more manageable by the end. It’s less about escaping problems and more about giving your brain the breathing room it craves. 2. Mood Shifts You...