walking is deeply rooted in us and to go without it, is to miss out on its tremendous benefits. the more and the longer i go for walks, the better i feel, the clearer i think, the more directed, motivated and productive i am. i know walking is something we take for granted despite it being something incredibly unique for our species.
how to get started – start today ( it’s easy for us to talk ourselves out of things. if the weather isn’t great or if we’re too tired). go for 5 minutes in the morning and 5 minutes in the evening. gradually build your way up. any walking is better than no walking.
no equipment is needed. you can wear any shoes you like. for short distances, flip flops work. you can do other stuff while you walk like call friends/family or listen to a podcast. it’s low effort and recovery time and an easy habit to maintain. you can walk in any weather with the right clothing.
exposure to morning sunshine (vitamin d)- viewing morning sunlight helps regulate your mood and sleep. sleep and mood are tied very tightly to body health (and weight management) even in the cold grey winter when there’s no greenery, there is enough sunlight to give us the positive effects. time spent outside is important for our eyesight.
space to clear your mind – it’s meditative. i’d try walking without any distractions to see how differently it affects you. for me, when i go without distractions (aka phone) it gives me the time and space to let my mind wander and draw personal conclusions or sets goals. walking sorts a lot of things out. it also improves your creativity, workflow and stamina.
connect with nature – if you can walk through natural areas, it can do wonders for your mental health by helping you focus on your senses – what you see, hear, smell and feel. being outside brings a lot of positive thoughts and feelings. check google maps for your area and see if there are any small parks near you.
improves your physical health – strengthens your muscles – your feet, ankles hips. boosts heart health by increasing your blood flow. helps your immune system, so you decrease your odds of catching a cold.
short walk after a meal – improves your digestion and glucose. if it’s too cold, have a dance party in the kitchen or get on a walking treadmill or walk in circles or up and down steps.
walking is sustainable – it’s a functional exercise that we all can do over the long term. most of the healthy older people you see stay that that way by regular walking.