It might seem strange that I have high blood pressure since I teach fitness classes, but I do. My best guess is that it’s stress, diet and lack of cardio.

So, last week I took up morning hiking. Runyon Canyon is right behind my house and it’s silly that I’ve lived here almost 4 years and can count the number of times I’ve hiked on one hand. I mean, it’s up the street about 500 yards. But no longer!

Last week I began getting up early and hiking the canyon loop first thing. It’s so nice to get my heart rate up, breathe the fresh air (since I get above the smog), see all the people and their dogs and best of all, to clear my head for the day ahead. I love how happy the dogs are since they don’t have to be on a leash and to smile at the other Angelenos. It gives me a sense of community, which can be hard to come by in LA. I’m starting to recognize some of the other hikers and dogs, which is fun. And at the top of the trail I pause for a few minutes and just gaze out over the vastness that is Los Angeles. To the East, the downtown skyline and to the West, the ocean. I love California, I really do.

On Tuesday morning I took my camera, and even though I was a bit embarrassed to be snapping photos (especially since I was by myself), I captured some good ones stealthily. I even captured a self-portrait looking back toward the Hollywood sign..

They say it takes 30 days to create a habit, so we’ll see how it goes. I am hoping I can make it at least 4 times per week. I love how awake and fresh these morning walks make me feel. Want to come hike with me?
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