When I was younger, you could get me to do just about anything with the threat of taking me to the woods behind our house. Chopping and/or stacking wood was my least favorite of activities and I would clean the whole house from top to bottom before going to the woods. Now that I’m a full blown adult (according to age anyhow), I’ve gotten to the point where I’m venturing outdoors again, and have I got some words of advice for anyone who used to be a nature hater like me.

To start with the basics, you’re going to have to take care of yourself physically if you’re venturing outside of the protective walls of your air conditioned home. Above all: drink lots and lots of water and make sure that you’re well fueled. Nuts and protein bars are pretty great snacks to take with you along the way. I went hiking with my sister recently and I didn’t bring as much water as I should have. By the end of things, I was pretty ready to lay down and drink my weight in water.

In addition to making sure that you’re well hydrated and have the energy you need to take on the paths, my expert advice says to make sure you’re physically prepared. Now, there are plenty of trails on which you can embark that are pretty easy on the legs. What I don’t suggest doing, however, is doing a really heavy workout the night before such that you can hardly walk down stairs, let alone up them. This is a mistake I have personally made and have no intention of repeating. Just make sure that you’re fully prepared to do the things that you’ve set out for.

Now that the physical aspects of you are covered, you also need to make sure that the world around you is in good shape. For instance, check the weather before you go. My most recent outings have involved in me hiking in the rain and 90º+ weather. It also might be a good idea to find yourself a map online and see what the area looks like. For instance, Turkey Run has a lot of trails that require you to walk through water. So maybe wear a pair of Chacos or take an extra pair of shoes and socks to change into when you get in the car. I may not be a Boy Scout, but I do know that you should be prepared.

Now that we’ve gotten all of the boring advice out of the way, I’d also say that one of the most important things about going on a hike is to figure out why you’re doing it. This really has nothing to do with making it physically easier, but I’ve found that hiking can be a great mental/emotional cure. Some people hike to be alone and just chill in nature for a little while. Others like the challenge of taking a tough route and overcoming obstacles. Whatever reason you’re doing it for, make sure that you enjoy yourself while you’re out there.

For me, hiking is a very spiritual experience. I often go with my sister and it allows me to connect with the nature that surrounds me and my family. I feel that after I go, I’ve done a lot of thinking on my own as well. It helps me sort out my thoughts. Now this may not be what you choose to do on your next free Saturday, but I do suggest that you find something that gives you the same sort of mental support. There are a lot of things to see and do in this world. Hiking may not be for you, but try to find something in your life that you truly enjoy. Research it before you try it out, and learn from the mistakes of novices like myself. Make a few of your own and you’re right on your way to becoming an expert.