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The ride has barely finished and your batteries are (already) flat? A “good fatigue” which could be explained by different factors. Explanations.
When you returned from an outdoor walk, did you feel exhausted? Nothing to worry about, says a sleep coach interviewed by Stylist UK magazine. Walking in nature would indeed activate numerous reactions in the body.
A natural recovery of the body
First and most obvious point: going outside results in energy expenditure (in other words, calories). The fatigue felt is therefore linked to this specific combustion effort.
“Engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking or walking can cause greater exertion than one might experience in an indoor setting, leading to temporary fatigue“, confirms the specialist. And even if you have decided to relax on a bench to read a book in good weather, “you are likely to walk across the park or engage in an activity while you are there“.
However, if you have produced an intense and unusual effort (such as during a hike) and you feel extremely tired, be careful.
This may be a warning signal from your body, potentially dehydrated and/or undernourished.
Relaxation of body and mind
Another reason that explains the post-outing pump: the state of relaxation induced by this walk.
“Exposure to nature can induce a state of relaxation and tranquility, promoting a change in mental and physical energy that could be perceived as fatigue. It is a combination that contributes to general well-being“, assures the sleep expert.
A study conducted in 2019 and published in Frontiers in Psychology also reveals that a simple 20-minute walk in contact with nature is enough for the body to lower the level of cortisol, the stress hormone.
Increased oxygen levels
Finally, post-ride drowsiness could also be explained by the air breathed… and the rising oxygen levels.
“The extra oxygen in fresh air compared to polluted air can lead to increased blood oxygen levels, which could play a role in this phenomenon. Not only does increased oxygen help your brain function better – making your thoughts clearer and calmer – but higher levels of oxygen in the blood have been linked to increased serotonin production“, summarizes physiologist and sports coach Kaitlyn Baird, with Well and Good.
Serotonin, which acts in particular in the regulation of mood, sleep-wake alternation, appetite, pain perception, body temperature, libido and alertness, states the Brain Institute.
Reasons enough to go out for a walk!
Slide: Good reflexes before going for a walk in the forest