By Michele Walsky | Observer Contributor
“Don’t worry, be happy. Climb Mount Monadnock!” is the advice Nancy Regan, health services clerk and hiking club advisor, suggests to students battling anxiety and stress. It doesn’t have to be mountains; walk, run, bike or go to the gym. According to Regan, technology has sprouted a nature-deficient society, so her philosophy is to just get out and start moving.
Regan endorses the endorphin high, that feel-good hormone released after any type of exercise. This natural mood booster improves mental and physical health—and it is free! She reported having hiked with a headache and having it disappear by the time she descended.
“It’s not just physical,” Regan said, emphasizing the optimistic effects workouts have on her daily outlook. “It’s a whole mind-body experience.”
After just an hour and twenty minutes, Regan has been up and down the 3,150 foot mountain. Don’t be discouraged if it takes longer. She’s been at it for five years. Her favorite trail is the 1.9 mile White Dot. It’s the fastest, but steepest, most difficult route. She suggested beginners use the Cascade Link or Cliff Walk, which are a good start for children.
Addicted and obsessed, she climbs the crag in Jaffrey, New Hampshire on Wednesdays from May to October, and every Sunday year-round. She doesn’t let anything interfere with her mountain climbing, exercise is her top priority. After buddying up as a favor, it became a way of life. She even got the whole family involved and her grown son still joins her for hikes.
She reminded that hikers need to stay hydrated, and since climbing burns so many calories, it is important to keep energy levels high. She advised packing high protein foods like nuts and snicker bars or her go-to backpack snack, PB & J’s.
According to Regan, winter is her favorite season to climb. She finds the untouched snow pristine, so quiet and peaceful, and the hanging powder-covered limbs, “absolutely beautiful.”
Regan said her future goal is to trek the Appalachian Trail, with New England portion being the most tricky to tackle.
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