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Many people will tell you that there’s no overnight fix when it comes to getting in shape.
But what if you could almost instantly (and easily) improve both your physical and mental wellness?
The answer is simple: walking!
Walking is one of the easiest and most effective ways to take care of your mind and body, and experts agree.
So if you’re looking for a way to improve your physical health, or a way to combat stress and anxiety, or if you’re simply needing a creative boost, look no further than walking.
Take a few minutes, and walk for your mind, body, and soul.
20 ways walking benefits your mind, body, and soul
1. Walking reduces stress. Studies continue to extol the benefits of walking, particularly when it comes to reducing stress. Even just 20 minutes a day can significantly lower your stress, boost your mood, and brighten your outlook.
2. You’ll sleep better. Studies have found that walking takes the cake when it comes to fighting insomnia. Research has shown that even compared to vigorous exercise, such as running, walking led to the greatest reduction in the time it takes to fall asleep.
3. Walking releases endorphins. Ever notice how great you feel after a working out? As with any exercise, walking releases endorphins: the feel-good neurochemicals that our brains release. So the next time you need a pick-me-up, go for a brisk walk!
4. You’ll fuel your creativity. Have you hit a wall or have your creative juices dried up? Research has found that walking may be your quickest fix when it comes to needing a creativity boost. In fact, not only does walking improve your cognitive functioning, but it also maintains and sharpens your brain’s health in the long run.
5. You actually can lose weight by walking every day. Walking is one of the easiest, most effective ways to lose weight. Even if it’s just 20 to 30 minutes every day or every other day, you’ll notice your waistline shrinking, and the number on the scale dropping.
6. You’ll have more energy. Did you know that a walk may actually be more energy boosting than a nap? Research has found that walking is a fantastic fatigue fighter, so the next time you need an energy boost, go outside for a walk. Not only will walking wake you up, but the added Vitamin D will give you a lift, too.
7. Walking lowers your blood pressure. Did you know that walking at a brisk pace can lower your blood pressure and reduce your cholesterol as much as running? Studies have found walking to be tremendously beneficial for your heart. You don’t have to run at a breakneck pace to boost your heart health – just walk!
8. It’s easier on your joints. Whether you have sore joints or not, walking is a great way to ensure the health of your joints. The joints in your body are made up of bone and cartilage, and the cartilage relies on joint fluid for nutrition. When you move your joints, you ensure that the cartilage is receiving the nourishment it needs to stay healthy. When you move your joints by walking, you not only help to maintain and improve their function, but you also help to keep them functioning longer.
9. You’ll have fewer cravings. Studies have found that taking a short, brisk walk can curb even your strongest cravings for chocolate.
10. You’ll lower your risks for several diseases. If you’re going to commit to doing one thing for your health, walk. Walking can simultaneously fight Type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, any and all types of cancer, and even depression. Not bad, huh?
11. Your legs will look amazing. Walking is one of the best ways to tone your legs. Additionally, it’s great for your muscle endurance and strength, particularly in the lower body. While some may argue that running is better for toning and firming, walking can give you the same great results, but with less of a potential for injury.
12. You’ll strengthen your immune system. When you make walking a daily habit, you naturally strengthen your immune system, enabling your body to more effectively fight off infections and sickness. In fact, research has shown that walking increases your blood counts for neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and natural killer cells: your body’s natural defense system.
13. You’ll save money. One of the best parts about walking? It’s free! You don’t have to go to the gym to get a great workout; you can just walk! Plus, being out in the sunlight is a fantastic mood lifter and health booster.
14. You’ll refresh your perspective. The next time you’re feeling down in the dumps, stressed out, or just in need of a mental refresher, go for a walk. Being in the outdoors has been proven to boost your mental and physical health.
15. You’ll get a boost of vitamin D. There’s a reason people love to be in the sun: it feels good and it’s good for your health. In fact, studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D are consistently linked with depressive symptoms. So when you get outside in the sun and walk, you’re not only improving your physical health, but also your mental health.
16. You’ll feel calmer. Walking directly counteracts anxiety. For one, you relax your body by moving and diffusing the bodily tension that is associated with anxiety. You also breathe more efficiently when you walk, improving your carbon dioxide levels and promoting deeper, more healthful and relaxing breaths.
17. It’s something you can do alone or with a friend. Need a few minutes to collect your thoughts? Or are you wanting to catch up with a friend? Walking is great because it’s something you can do on your own or with company. Unlike running where it may be difficult to chat with a friend, walking doesn’t inhibit conversation.
18. It’s the best way to explore (especially when traveling). Whether you’ve lived in your neighborhood for years, or if you’re traveling to a new city, walking is the single best way to explore and learn about your surroundings. You’ll find hidden gems like a beautiful park or a new coffee shop to try, all while being fit and active.
19. It reduces chronic back pain. If you suffer from chronic back pain, walking may be your best option for physical fitness. Walking has been proven to lessen pain, improve healing, increase your flexibility, and even prevent recurring injuries. In fact, sudies have found that walking can reduce low back pain by as much as 50 percent. When you walk, you nourish the spinal structures by facilitating stronger circulation, and ensuring the delivery of nutrients into the soft tissues, while also draining toxins. This promotes healing and improved functioning-all with just a few minutes of walking!
20. It’s good for your soul. When you walk, you experience a multitude of benefits not just for your physical health, but also for your mind and soul. For one, when you immerse yourself in nature, you can more mindfully connect with your environment where all your senses are actively engaged. It’s also easier to connect with yourself when you’re free of the usual daily distractions, like your phone, work, and the demands of every day. So if you want to simultaneously improve your physical health and overall wellness in nearly every aspect imaginable, simply go for a walk. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you.
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