BLOG 245: THE 10 REASONS I WALK EVERY DAY (WHATEVER THE WEATHER!)
Dec 12, 2023
In 2020 we all went into lockdown. We all were restricted to being in our house day and night apart from 30 minutes exercise in our local area. This started my love for walking. Ever since March 2020 I have walked almost every day and it has been transformational for my wellness.
If you are as busy as me, you will know that finding time for any exercise can be a challenge, especially walking daily. However, I have made it one of my 3 daily non-negotiables (alongside Yoga and Face Yoga of course) and I always make time for it, even on a busy rainy day! It is truly one of the simplest yet highly effective ways of feeling good in my mind and body.
In this blog, I am going to share with you some of the scientifically proven benefits of walking in the hope it will inspire you to make walking a key part of your daily routine.
1. Physical Fitness
Walking is a low-impact aerobic exercise that is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. It helps improve cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate and promoting better circulation. Regular walking strengthens muscles, enhances flexibility, and improves balance, reducing the risk of injuries and falls, especially in older adults.
2. Healthy Happy Weight
I always walk for my wellness but a positive side effect is a healthy, happy body. Engaging in brisk walking may burn calories, making it an effective tool for weight management and maintaining a healthy body weight. Combined with a balanced diet, regular walking can contribute to weight loss by creating a calorie deficit. Additionally, it boosts metabolism, making it easier to manage body weight in the long run.
3. Mental Well-being
Physical activity, including walking, stimulates the production of endorphins, the body's natural mood enhancers. This natural high can help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Taking a walk outdoors, in particular, exposes you to sunlight, which boosts vitamin D levels, further enhancing mood and promoting a sense of well-being. Walking is my number one technique to help me feel better emotionally and mentally.
4. Improved Sleep Quality
Walking has been proven to improve the quality of your sleep. It helps you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep cycles. Adequate rest is essential for overall wellness, as it allows the body and mind to recharge and repair, supporting optimal functioning during waking hours.
5. Enhanced Cognitive Function
Walking has been linked to improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of cognitive decline. Regular physical activity, including walking, increases blood flow to the brain, promoting the growth of new brain cells and improving overall brain health. It has also been associated with better memory, attention, and creative thinking.
6. Boosted Immune System
Moderate, consistent exercise like walking has been proven to boost the immune system. Regular physical activity can improve the body's ability to fight off infections, reducing the likelihood of getting sick. A strong immune system is crucial for overall wellness, helping the body defend against various diseases and illnesses.
7. Social Connection
Walking provides an opportunity for social interaction. Although I often walk alone, at least once a week I try to walk with a friend, my husband or my children. Social connections are essential for mental and emotional well-being. Engaging in conversations and sharing experiences during walks can strengthen relationships, boost mood, and reduce feelings of isolation.
8. Increased Energy Levels
I find that walking always boosts energy levels rather than depleting them. I definitely feel more energised and alert throughout the day after a walk. This increased energy has been proven to enhance productivity too!
9. Lowered Risk of Chronic Diseases
Studies have shown that engaging in regular physical activity, including walking, reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Walking helps control blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar, promoting overall cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of related conditions.
10. Environmental Connection
Walking is an eco-friendly mode of transportation that reduces the carbon footprint. Choosing to walk instead of drive for short trips contributes to environmental conservation and helps the planet as well as your wellness.
In conclusion, walking is a simple yet powerful form of exercise that offers a multitude of benefits for overall wellness. I love it and plan to keep this up all my life. It positively impacts my physical health, mental well-being, and even my social connections.
By incorporating regular walks into your routine, you are taking a significant step toward a healthier, happier life. So, lace up your shoes, step outside, and enjoy the numerous advantages that walking can bring to your overall wellness!
