The Joy of Walking
Approximate average reading time is 4 minutes.
Our bodies are meant to move. I hear Beverly say it again and again. Any movement is good, and the simplest, most accessible is walking. Walking is good for most everyone with at least some consideration of age and fitness level. Set aside worries like the number of steps and just walk. Walk for the pure joy of it.
Fall is right around the corner, and for me experiencing the awe and wonder of nature in the fall makes walking joyful. The humidity is low, and when I look up I see the reds, oranges, and yellows pop against the clear blue sky. It’s breathtaking! Okay. I know. Let me catch my breath and move on with the benefits of walking:
1. Physical Health Benefits:
Improved cardiovascular health and circulation.
Weight management and calorie burning.
Enhanced joint mobility and bone strength.
Reduced risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension.
2. Mental Health Benefits:
Stress reduction and mood enhancement.
Boosted production of endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones.
Cognitive benefits, including improved focus and memory.
3. Social and Emotional Benefits:
Opportunities for social interaction and bonding.
Enhanced sense of community, especially if you participate in group walking activities.
In addition, I offer a few tips for those who may be interested in making walks a habit to establish a better, healthier life through walking:
1. Set Goals:
Establish daily or weekly goals to track progress.
Use a pedometer or smartphone app to monitor steps, if you choose.
2. Use Proper Form:
Maintain an upright posture and engage your core muscles.
Swing your arms naturally to aid in propulsion.
3. Footwear and Attire:
Choose comfortable and supportive shoes with proper arch support.
Wear moisture-wicking clothing suitable for the weather.
4. Warm-up and Cool-down:
Start with a gentle warm-up to prepare your muscles.
Finish with light stretches to prevent stiffness.
5. Vary Your Route:
Explore different paths to keep your walks interesting.
Incorporate nature trails, urban routes, and scenic areas.
6. Walking Techniques:
Try brisk walking for cardiovascular benefits.
Experiment with interval training (alternating between fast and moderate paces).
In the end, try walking at least once a week for about 15 minutes and tell me you don’t feel better. I leave you with a quote from Henry David Thoreau—something to mull over on your next walk: “The walking of which I speak has nothing in it akin to taking exercise, … but it is itself the enterprise and adventure of the day.” My translation--walk for your heart, walk for your spirit, walk for the joy of it.
