It is all very well to bang on about the gym, jogging and team games and don't get me wrong, they all have their benefits. But aside from membership costs, knee pain and being sworn at for missing an easy goal, there must be an option for the not so sporting enthused, ones with ongoing injuries or ones who just want a low impact, just as beneficial option?
Welcoming to walking! The NHS website's opening line on walking for health is: "Walking is simple, free and one of the easiest ways to get more active,lose weight and become healthier." Need I say anything more? Yet I will.
Walking counts as part of your weekly exercise minutes. So even if you are just doing a medium to brisk walk up and down the shopping isle, this counts, and we all start somewhere. For those wanting to build up to a longer walk, try listening to music or your favourite podcast at the same time. And do not be afraid to stop, pause and rest. These moments of rest are important. You
can congratulate yourself for the walk you have achieved so far, you can take a moment to notice the scenery or sounds around you or you can notice how your body feels, your feet, your legs, your heart.
I use walking to process thoughts and feelings. If I am feeling overwhelmed,annoyed, sad or any number of negativities, a walk helps me process this. Sometimes the feelings pass, subside, or are put into context after a good walk. Walking can clear the mind; help you look at a problem differently or simple just distract you for a while.
Walking with someone else has additional benefits. They can help motive you to pick up the pace, walk a bit further or just leave your front door in the first place. And not only is this great for your physical health but great for your mental health. If you walk with a trusted adult, excitable kid or a four-legged friend, happy hormones will be pumped around your body and your brain will be open to thinking, finding solutions and accepting.
As I quote in my YouTube mindful walks, a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Hopefully today you can make yours.
Hazel
