Reason to Hike No. 24: Greater alertness

Exposure to blue sky improves alertness,
a new study indicates.

Do your kids need a little pick me up? If it’s sunny day, skip the candy bars and caffeinated beverages and instead take them on a walk.

New research in Sweden shows being exposed to blue light speeds up reaction time on visual tests. For adults, an hour of blue light worked better than two to three cups of coffee.

Why? When blue light hits your retina, it activates the sections of your brain that make you more alert, especially where cognitive functions are concerned.

Just another reason to hit the trail!

Read more about day hiking with children in my Hikes with Tykes guidebooks.