5 Health Benefits of Living Near the Mountains

The world offers a wide variety of landscapes—from beaches to woods to grassy plains, there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing which landscape to live in. But perhaps one of the most beautiful and beneficial landscapes to live near is mountains. While some people are hesitant to look at a mountain property for sale, living in a mountain area can offer several advantages, including great health benefits.

Breathe in the fresh air

One of the biggest benefits of living near the mountains is the ability to breathe in the fresh air. Living in areas like big cities where there is a lot of pollution can actually result in a plethora of health issues, like asthma. But when you live near the mountains, the air is fresh and clean. Breathing in fresh air can lower the risk of health problems and even decrease stress. Clean air can also help people get a better night’s sleep, which is important for overall health. So compared to living somewhere surrounded by polluted air, the mountains offer a clean atmosphere.

Motivation to get active

Being physically active is one of the easiest ways to stay healthy, and living near mountains can help encourage people to become, and stay, active. When you’re surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape, there is plenty of inspiration to get some exercise. City living comes with gym memberships and walks to work but mountain surroundings offer endless opportunities for exercise. And best of all, there are physical activities that can be done in all seasons. During the warmer weather, hiking, biking, and water sports are available and in the colder weather, skiing and snowshoeing are great options. Living near the mountains provides more options for physical activity.

Lowered risk of obesity

Living near the mountains can actually help lower the risk of obesity, due to a number of reasons. As previously mentioned, living near the mountains inspires people to be physically active. Whether it’s a simple nature walk or a hike up a mountain, regular physical activity can help people lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, being in a higher altitude may also help with weight loss. Several studies have shown that people living in higher altitudes are less likely to face obesity. So whether someone is looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, going to the mountains can help.

Decreased blood pressure

High blood pressure and heart disease are extremely common health problems in America. And while regular exercise, an adjusted diet, and stress management can lower blood pressure, so can living near the mountains. Getting more exercise and lowering stress levels can both result from living in a mountain area, which can lower blood pressure. But furthermore, research has found that breathing in the lowered oxygen levels mountain areas offer can actually change the way heart muscles work. This can result in overall better heart health, including lower blood pressure and a decreased risk of heart disease.

Nature can release stress

Stress can have a negative impact on people, both mentally and physically. High levels of stress can lead to poor sleep, high blood pressure, weight gain, and decreased brain function. This is why it’s crucial for people to properly manage their stress levels. For someone who deals with high stress regularly, a busy city may not be the best place to live. Instead, living somewhere surrounded by nature may be the better choice. Waking up to a beautiful sunrise, the sound of birds, and the quiet nature can offer is a great way to reduce stress and improve overall health.

Living near mountains offers a wide variety of health benefits, which are great for people of all ages. So if you’re thinking of escaping the city life and want to immerse yourself in nature, consider moving to a property in the mountains.