During this pandemic, I have found myself with much more time on my hands than I thought I would have. The loss of two family members and a job loss had me reeling. In Canada, there is research that suggests the mental effects of the pandemic are hitting women much harder than men.
So, what’s a sister to do? Well, this sister started getting up early and going for a walk. These walks are not in place of workouts. These walks aren’t speed walks. Rather, these walks allow me to go at my own pace and wander through the chambers of my mind and heart and figure “ish” out. I may get a cup of coffee along the way (#coffeeislife) or I may not! The important thing is that these walks are a lifesaver to me.
Walking doesn’t get its due. Humans were built for moving and that includes walking. Some health experts believe that the chair was the worst invention ever created. You can do a lot to enhance your health by standing up and going for a walk.
Are you feeling down, constipated, or overweight? Is your blood pressure or blood sugar a little high? Do you have trouble falling asleep at night? The solution might be as simple as walking for 30 minutes each day.
A walk might seem like child’s play compared to running a marathon or competing in crossfit, but a walk can be a very healthy alternative if you lack the time or cannot exercise intensely. Better yet, walking is a great addition to your daily workout.
Here are 10 reasons why you should incorporate a daily walk into your routine:
1. You’ll feel better. If you are currently not getting enough exercise, a walk is a simple way to fill that void. Getting out of the house and breathing a little fresh air is bound to enhance your mood and outlook on life. Walking is a great way to begin an exercise routine.
2. Walking is good for your bones. Hip fractures are reduced in postmenopausal women that walk for at least 30 minutes each day.
3. You can expect to sleep better if you walk regularly. Those that walk daily report a lower incidence of insomnia. If you’re having trouble sleeping at night, the solution might be as simple as a daily walk.
4. Your risk of chronic disease may be reduced if you walk each day. Studies have found that your risk of developing diabetes or suffering a stroke may be reduced significantly. Thirty minutes of walking is all you need each day which can lead to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease by 30%. A daily stroll can also lower your blood pressure.
5. Walking increases the motility of your bowels. If you suffer from constipation, a walk can do wonders to get things moving.
6. You are developing a good habit. Walking can be a positive addition to your routine. The most successful people have routines. You’re more likely to experience success if you can maintain positive routines in your life.
7. You’re likely to lose weight. If you increase your physical activity without increasing your caloric intake, you can expect to drop a few pounds (*BONUS*). Even if you don’t lose weight, you may experience a shift in your weight that allows your tight clothing to fit much more comfortably (hint … losing fat and gaining a bit of muscle).
8. Walking is good for your brain. Older seniors that walk daily have 50% decreased risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia.
9. Your creativity will increase. More than one study has demonstrated that going for a walk boosts creativity. Those that incorporate a daily walk get the creative juices flowing more so than those that sit most of the day. Having a challenge at work or at home (like working from home)? You’re more likely to find the solution during a nice, long walk.
10. You’ll live longer. Those that spend more time on their feet have been shown to live longer than those that spend too much time sitting each day. Get up on your feet and go for a walk if you want to extend your life.
Conclusion
Walking is free, low-impact, and simple to do. No equipment needed (except a good, comfortable pair of shoes). Unlike many other forms of exercise, walking can be done by those with weight issues and those with no athletic ability whatsoever. Just put on your shoes and get out the door!
What more do you need? Oh … there is research suggesting that getting fresh air first thing in the morning is beneficial to your health!
So, what are you waiting for?
Until next time!
Yours in health and wellness,
Francine Alleyne (RHNP™)
Holistic Nutritionist, Registered Holistic Nutrition Practitioner™
Email: fran@francinealleyne.com
Website: http://www.midlifehealthy.com
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Instagram: @wellness.with.fran
DISCLAIMER: Please consult your healthcare practitioner if you are experiencing any symptoms. I am not a doctor. This post and anything else you find on this website is intended for informational, educational and self-empowerment purposes ONLY and is not intended to treat or diagnose any condition or disease.
This is so good! Taking the pressure off of it having to be solely for exercise makes it a much easier task to complete.
So glad you liked it! Thanks for commenting!
I have also started walking since the pandemic as a way to exercise and really love it! I put on a podcast or call a friend and look forward to that moment even more. Love that it also has so many benefits, I didn’t know about a lot of them so thanks for sharing!
You are very welcome! Thank you for commenting!
I love this Fran! I’m a cranky woman if I don’t get my 40-45 minute walk in every day. I need to get off the computer and give my eyes and brain a break (and my butt too lol- no stand-up workstation in my home office like I have at work). Today I’m still going to walk when it’s -15 C (-22 c with the wind chill – ugh!)…we need the fresh air too!
Thanks again for this awesome post!!
So glad you liked it! Walking is so awesome for so many reasons! I love my morning walks even at -17 wind chill!