We swear by mountain air: How spending time on the mountain can boost your well-being.
“Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So get on your way!” These famous words by Dr Seuss encourage us all to hit the mountain tops. But did you know that spending time on the mountain is proven to be good for your physical well-being, too? So if you want to enjoy the great outdoors, the only way is up. Whether on skis, a bike or in your hiking boots – when you come visit us in the Carinthian Nockberge mountains, you can expect not only breathtaking panoramas, but also the perfect conditions for strengthening your immune system.
But what is it that makes the mountain air so special? And what positive effects does it have on your health? Join us and find out why we swear by the mountain air and all its benefits to the body!
A breather for allergy sufferers.
Allergy sufferers and asthmatics in particular can breathe easy on the mountain, since mountain air contains fewer pollutants, allergens and fine dust. So that feeling you get that the air is much cleaner in the mountains is not all in your head. When the pollen count rises, a trip to the mountains is respite for your airways!
Strengthens the cardiovascular system.
Getting regular exercise in the mountains lowers blood pressure and pulse rate, reduces the risk of heart disease and strengthens the cardiovascular system in a gentle way. It’s not just your stamina that benefits here.
Check out our guest blog article on epigenetics to discover more about the positive effects of exercise at a cellular level through the activation of genes for energy metabolism, muscle growth and inflammation inhibition.
Improves circulation and cell regeneration.
The lower air pressure at high altitudes stimulates the production of red blood cells, which improves the oxygen supply to tissue. This not only promotes cell regeneration, but also boosts metabolism – ideal for anyone who wants to lose weight.
Puts you in a good mood.
The tranquillity and natural surroundings of the mountains have a calming effect on both body and mind. Spending time in nature has been proven to reduce the stress hormone cortisol and promote the release of happy hormones like serotonin and dopamine. The world looks better from up high – treat yourself to a change of perspective and take a little break from that restless mind of yours. Guaranteed to make you feel on top of the world!
Gives you a boost of vitamin D.
Keeping your vitamin D levels well topped up also helps to ensure a good mood. The more intense sunlight in the mountains boosts vitamin D production, lifting your mood and strengthening your immune system – a real benefit, especially in the darker winter months. We’ve got plenty of sun loungers and seating available on the mountain for you to sunbathe. So pull up a chair anytime and enjoy the sun on your face!
And speaking of the immune system, high altitude air not only has positive effects on your health, but also gives your immune system a boost. These are the most important benefits for your immune system:
✅ Antibacterial effect: The increased level of infrared light in the mountains has an antibacterial effect, activates the immune cells and reduces the risk of infection.
✅ A fresh kick for the immune system: the cooler mountain air stimulates the immune system and helps you fight off colds and infections.
✅ Resistance through exercise: regular activity on the mountain trains the immune system and increases the efficiency of the immune cells. This allows your body to fight viruses and bacteria more effectively.
✅ Reduces stress: being constantly stressed out weakens the immune system. The vastness of the mountains and the tranquillity of nature help you to relax, strengthening your immune system. Maybe our
is just the thing for you here.
✅ Better sleep quality: the pure and cooler air in the mountains promotes more restful sleep, which is essential for a strong immune system.
If that doesn’t tempt you to book a holiday on the mountain soon, we don’t know what will.
To help you get the best out of your next mountain adventure for your health, here are a few valuable tips:
- Take it easy! Give your body time to get used to the fresh air and lower oxygen pressure at around 2,000 metres above sea level. Start at a comfortable level and build up slowly.
- Stay hydrated! The dry mountain air causes your body to lose fluids more quickly. Make sure you keep drinking water, even if you don’t feel thirsty
- Protect yourself from the sun! UV radiation is more intense in the mountains, even on cloudy days. So you should never be without a high SPF sun cream on the mountain.
- Make sure you’re fitted out correctly! Choose suitable clothing and equipment depending on the activity and weather – high quality and a good fit are important here.
- Take a break! Don’t push yourself beyond your limits and give yourself a break every now and then. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and let nature work wonders for you.
- Respect nature! Treat nature like you would your own home so that it stays a place for everyone to reap the benefits.
The unique combination of clean air, physical activity and natural surroundings makes the mountain air a true wellspring of health. That means the best prescription for your well-being is right on your doorstep – and doesn’t cost much. Whether you decide to go for a day on the slopes, a bike tour or a mountain hike, your body will thank you for it.
Is your inner health guru trying to get your attention? Time to answer the call and head for the mountains! You can find some beautiful hiking routes in our blog.
