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It's up to you to find it in yourself to be physically active. However, you still need to find a balance between doing everything on your own, and getting the support you need.

One outcome of physical activity is learning to interact positively with others. The alternative environments dimension can challenge you to do just that.

So let's say...

You've been hiking for four hours on a very challenging mountain. It's hot and it seems like the whole climb's been straight up. You've scrambled over plant life, forged through streams, and lost your footing on rocks that give way on almost every step. Your feet are sore, your back is sore, even your hands are sore! And you're mad at the leader for taking you to the point of being over-tired. Maybe you're even mad at yourself because you can't keep up.

That's it. You just can't ask any more of yourself so you start to slow down. You're seriously considering just sitting down and letting the rest of the group continue on their own. Who cares anymore? Let them go to the top. All they're going to see are a bunch of trees, some lakes and maybe a few clouds. Big deal.

That's when one of the group members up ahead shouts, "Hey, bud, how's it going? You should see the view up here!" And someone hands you water. Someone else passes you a fist full of trail mix. Somehow you find the energy within yourself to dig a little deeper. Sure you're a panting, sweaty mess, but you make it to the top. And they were right, it is beautiful. It was all worth it. You did it! But you needed the help of your hiking partners. 'Cause no one makes it to the top all by themselves.

 

       


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activities | health benefits | cooperation | do it daily for life