For many people, their version of an IMAX theater experience is being on higher territories, leveling with the clouds, and marveling at the beauty of nature's horizon. Climbing mountains, taking a hike, and running free on terrains are more than just outdoor leisure. In fact, it is a therapy for some thanks to its health benefits. According to a study published in the journal Environmental Research, prolonged exposure to green spaces show statistically significant decreases in incidence of diabetes, stroke, hypertension, asthma, and coronary heart disease, among others. At the same time, it was shown to boost mental health and increase life expectancy (Twohig-Bennett and Jones, 2018).

With the pandemic and the ever-changing quarantine classifications, however, going out and traveling these days might be close to impossible. We may all be cooped up in the safety of our own space, but that doesn't mean we cannot dream of our future escapes from the city life and into the mountain tops. While you're at it, keep these things in mind to make your next hike and trail run joyous, practical, and pandemic proof.

Always plan ahead

While unplanned trips bring such adrenaline and adventurous spirit in travels past, doing that in our pandemic time may come with a ticket straight back home. Locations may require additional documentation like permits, medical certificates, or booking confirmation with tour groups in charge of your destination. That's why researching your destination, getting up-to-date with its area's community quarantine status and news, and talking to local government units is a must to guarantee a fun and stress-free time with nature.

Pack the essentials

Before the pandemic, bringing trail food, water, headlamps/flashlights, gloves, first aid kits, cap, sunblock, garbage bag to hikes were no-brainers. Nowadays, your basic toolkit should be supplemented with face masks (medical-grade is preferred), face shields (while in transit), bio-hazard disposable waste bags (for used masks), 70 percent solution alcohol/alcohol–based hand sanitizer, and tissue paper. It also goes without saying that physical distancing and mask-wearing should be observed whenever possible.

Have the right gear

Preparation plays a great role in outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking and trail running. Oftentimes, these ventures ask for more than just physical stamina, and people are challenged more by a change of weather, unexpected routes, among others. Being ready by having proper gears is essential. From rains, fogs, and slippery muds to watery slopes and steep rocky walkways, it is always better to anticipate the difficult conditions and equip yourself for when it happens.

Dress for the adventure

Armoring yourself for a wild time with nature has its benefits. Sure, for many hikers and trekkers, style is the last thing they need when going out and getting dirty with nature. But these chic athletic wear are very much available and have more value put into them. For one, outdoor lifestyle brand Merrell has been producing dependable pieces that are fit for tough activities and also sustainably made.

Its new Moab 2 collection—the brand’s OG hiker line, namely the Moab 2, Moab Flight, and Moab Speed which allowed them to traverse the slippery and muddy mountainside with relative ease. The Flight and Speed models, in particular, are trail runners that are perfect for light hikes. All shoes feature Vibram outsoles which provide maximum traction and hold in these difficult conditions. The Agility Synthesis 2, one of the brand's newest trail running models, has been reengineered as one of the brand’s most sustainable designs yet. Made with partially recycled upper materials, natural rubber outsoles, and without any dyes, this shoe takes 80 percent less water and 50 percent less energy to produce compared to those manufactured using traditional dyeing methods. The shoe was made clean for wearers to muddy them up.

Take lots and lots of photos and videos

You’ve already gone through various LGU requirements, checkpoints, and unpredictable weather so you may as well stop, breathe, and bask in the view. Since this brief yet memorable experience may now become more and more sporadic due to rapidly changing quarantine situations, it is recommend that you savor each moment outside and take photos or videos to look back on. Also, why not share them on social media for others’ information and inspiration? You likely have more than a few friends in your network who would appreciate seeing and being reminded of the possibility of taking a quick trip to nature. Especially In these unimaginably tough times, sharing and showing kindness in our own little ways can make a meaningful impact to others.

Know more about Merrell online at merrell.com.ph, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MerrellPhilippines and on Twitter and Instagram: @Merrell_PH.