Start walking for well-being this year
As one year ended and another began, we all felt cheerful. We got busy looking forward, planning a little or wondering – “How will I make this year different?” We made resolutions, we partied or spent quality time with friends and family. However, it is very rare that mood lasts as life continues to happen. Yet, the spirit stays for a bit. I recommend adding to your list the practice of at least a 30-minute walk every day and keeping that cheerful spirit on much longer.
It is one of my most favourite activities and what better than promoting walking to celebrate this New Year? It has so many health benefits and is recommended by all health practitioners alike. With walking, you can truly improve your physical and mental health.
Walking For physical health
One of the most basic activities of life that we are losing touch with is walking. It is one of the simplest, easiest and most underrated exercises. Brisk walking can help lose weight and improve fitness. And walking regularly helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and reduce risks for heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and some chronic illnesses.
Walking, especially for millennials, who are spending more time on a chair in front of a computer with a slouch, is absolutely essential. While it is easy to reach the plateau stage with heavy exercises and quit easily, walking comparatively helps to keep going. Daily walking improves bone strength, muscle endurance and balance and coordination. It increases your metabolism and strengthens the immune system. What more? It is great for a mental boost too.
Walking For mental health
Walking is equally good for mental health. There is no shortage of research showing the positive impact of walking on mental health. It improves mood, alleviates fatigue and stress. In fact, the impact of walking on mental health may be experienced almost immediately. Studies show that walking provides room for clearing the mind or deep thinking, which results in increased attentiveness and being present. Further, it helps in the free flow of thoughts, ideas and creativity as walking improves brain function, memory and sleep. Walking is also a prescribed activity for anyone showing even the slightest symptoms of depression, anxiety, hostility or anger due to its positive impact on mind and body.
“If you are in a bad mood, go for a walk. If you are still in a bad mood, go for another walk.” Hippocrates
Walking is a must in your daily activities
Simply put, walking has just too many benefits to be ignored. If you are not getting any exercise, start with at least a 30-minute brisk walk today. For those with knee, ankle, joint or back problems or are overweight etc, if 30-minute is too much at one go, break it up into 10-minute walks thrice a day. Listen to your body.
If you are looking at burning calories, gradually increase the pace, distance and duration. You could also walk up a hill or take any similar elevated path, and/or choose to carry hand weights. Remember to maintain a good posture while walking. Posture is an important aspect of healthy walking.
Make it enjoyable so that you look forward to it every day. Try mindful walking if you prefer a slow walk or take different routes every day. Find friends who want to start walking too and track your progress together, walk with others or walk a dog. Figure out what works for you and set yourself up for success in making walking a daily ritual.