Health Benefits of Vacationing in the Mountains
We all know being healthy isn't just about what's on our dinner plate or how often we go to the gym. There is an overwhelming amount of research that supports the benefits of spending time outdoors and in nature.
Located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Banff National Park is one of the best and most iconic places in Canada to enjoy the great outdoors. Since 1885 when Banff National Park was established as Canada’s first national park, visitors from all over the world have flocked here to enjoy the spectacular landscape that is made up of more than 6500 square kilometers of mountainous terrain.
Here are all the reasons why you should plan your next vacation to Lake Louise.
MOUNTAINS INSPIRE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Banff National Park and Lake Louise embody a strong outdoor culture and are a year-round mecca for the outdoor adventure seeker.
In the summer, Lake Louise is a hiker's paradise. An extensive trail network is accessible from the doors of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and there are hikes for all ages and abilities. Exploring by canoe or by horseback are also great, iconic ways to embrace the outdoors. In the winter, ski at the world class Lake Louise Ski Resort or explore our real life snow globe by cross country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating and more.
Fall and spring are great times to visit too!
LEAVE FEELING RELAXED AND LESS ANXIOUS
Japanese and Korean researchers have done extensive research on the benefits of “forest bathing.” That is, simply being in nature and using all your senses to take in your surroundings. Spending as little as 15 minutes in nature has been seen to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
It’s easy to venture off the beaten path in Lake Louise and have a little piece of paradise to yourself. With an abundance of dramatic mountaintops, colourful alpine meadows and turquoise lakes and rivers, Lake Louise and its surrounds are truly one of the most pristine alpine locations in the world. It's easy to forget about your worries and be captivated by the awe-inspiring natural beauty.
YOU WILL GET A BETTER WORKOUT
Engaging in physical activity in Canada’s highest permanent settlement at 1750m where there is less oxygen will make your body work harder. The beauty of that is, when you return home, you will find you’re huffing and puffing less.
Tip: While the breathtaking mountain views may inspire you to hit the trail running, start slow. Pay attention to your body, as you are likely to feel the effects of exercising well above sea level.
YOU MAY LOSE WEIGHT
Being in the mountains may help fight obesity. A 2010 study revealed that visiting the mountains for as short as one week can encourage weight loss. People have been found to eat less for a month after coming out of high altitude. Read more about this in the Huffington Post.
OUR DRINKING WATER IS WORLD CLASS
There are few places in the world that offer delicious, purified glacier-fed water straight out of the tap. Stay hydrated with our mountain-fresh tap water that is purified in our state-of-the-art on-site water treatment plant.
“It might be the best tap water you ever try,” says Savina Caporali, Director of Sustainability at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. “I believe it’s some of the best in Canada, if not the world. Most of us take clean drinking water for granted... some countries advise against drinking the tap water. We are blessed with an ancient glacier and a freshwater lake that we can draw water from.”
Tip: Join our effort to reduce plastic waste and bring a reusable water bottle when you visit.
CURE ACHES AND PAINS IN NATURAL MINERAL SPRINGS
The indigenous people have been reaping the benefits of Banff National Park’s incredible natural resources long before it was even declared a National Park. A culture of health and wellness dates back to prior 1880, when the First Nations people used to bathe in Banff’s natural hot springs, now known as the Cave and Basin. Banff National Park is one of the oldest wellness destinations in Canada. Although you can't bathe at the Cave and Basin since it was declared a historic site, the Banff Upper Hot Springs and Fairmont Banff Springs thermal pools, 45 minutes drive from Lake Louise, offer an opportunity to go for a soak and relax.
Lake Louise is Canada's oldest wellness destination. This pool no longer exists but was enjoyed by hotel guests prior to the 1980s.
YOUR LUNGS CAN ENJOY CLEAN, FRESH AIR
While many cities in the world are battling with air pollution, there is plenty of fresh air to go around in Lake Louise.
Research shows exposing your lungs to fresh air can help alleviate stress and anxiety. Lake Louise is a fabulous place for some deep breathing exercises. Whether on the lakefront or atop a mountain, fill your lungs with the clean, fresh air and enjoy the smell of pine. Exhale deeply to help rid the body of airborne toxins. If you live in a big city, spend a weekend away in nature and your body will thank you for it.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average American spends 93 per cent of their life indoors. Instead of reaching for a cup of coffee, go outside and get some fresh air – it’s a natural energizer for the body!
We hope to welcome you to our outdoor paradise soon. Add a dash of wellness to your visit with one of our wellness retreats.
Blessings,
Kim
#MountainVacation #CanadianRockies #RockyMountains #LakeLouise #BanffNationalPark #Wellness #WellnessBucketlist
