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Vaishno Devi’s brutal climb: What this sacred trek does to your heart, brain and soul

Produced by: Manoj Kumar

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Heart Climber

Scaling 5,200 feet over 12–15 km isn’t just devotion—it’s a marathon for your heart. The steep ascent powers up cardiovascular endurance, boosting circulation and heart strength for days after.

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Muscle Forge

Every step on Vaishno Devi’s punishing incline fires up legs, glutes, and core, forging muscular resilience and stamina most gym routines can't match.

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Lung Charger

At high altitudes, your lungs hustle for oxygen. The thin air forces deeper breaths, subtly training your respiratory system for better capacity and efficiency.

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Fat Burner

Hours of trekking torch calories—potentially over 1,500 in a single day—supporting weight management, provided post-yatra indulgences are kept in check.

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Joint Liberator

Navigating rocky trails and stairs keeps joints fluid and mobile, enhancing flexibility and helping stave off stiffness that sedentary routines invite.

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Immunity Spike

Science says moderate, sustained treks dial up your immune system, prepping your body to better fend off seasonal bugs and infections.

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Stress Dissolver

The rhythmic chant of “Jai Mata Di,” coupled with nature’s embrace, lowers stress hormone cortisol, leaving you mentally lighter and more centered.

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Mood Healer

Physical strain meets spiritual serenity, lifting mood, easing anxiety, and providing a rare, pilgrim-fueled dopamine high that lingers beyond the trip.

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Sleep Resetter

After hours of trekking and emotional catharsis, your body welcomes sleep like never before—deeper, more restorative slumber becomes nature’s final blessing.

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