WANT EVEN MORE HEALTHY IDEAS FROM SHAPE YOUR FUTURE?
Nothing beats the rush you get after a good workout or activity. Sometimes though, life can get in the way of that — especially when adults need 30 minutes a day and kids need 60—the solution: a daily walk. Walking may seem like a small change, but the benefits are endless!
How to get started:
Forming habits takes time and effort. So, if going on a daily walk seems daunting, start small! Work them into your day in ways that make sense. Go on a morning walk around the neighborhood while drinking your coffee. Walk around the block on your lunch break. Take the family on an after-dinner walk while your food settles.
You don’t have to start off walking several miles a day. It can be as simple as a sunset stroll or a 15-minute power walk. Whatever motivates you to get up and moving.
What are the benefits?
One walk a day may not seem like much, but after a few short strolls, you’ll start to see the immediate benefits.
- More energy. If you find yourself dozing off at your desk or tired in the afternoon, a brisk walk around the block will wake you up to help tackle the rest of your to-do list.
- Improved mood. Activity and exercise can help reduce anxiety and stress.
- Better sleep. Regular walks can help you fall asleep, stay asleep and increase the quality of your sleep.
- Improved health. Physical activity of any kind is good for your body and mind. Daily walks can improve blood pressure, resting heart rate and cholesterol. It won’t take long for you to see improvements in your physical health.
Make your walk your own.
Daily walks are what you make them. If you need some alone time to brainstorm, recharge or relax, go on a solo walk in the morning while listening to a podcast. If you want a more creative way to have meetings or discussions, encourage your coworkers and friends to join you on your daily walk to make them more productive. If you want a fun evening activity for the whole family, bring them along! Turn your walks into a neighborhood scavenger hunt, or try these tips to make your walk more fun.
How you walk is totally up to you! Find what works best for your schedule, family, community and lifestyle, and get moving! For more tips on staying active and healthy living, check out our other blogs at ShapeYourFutureOK.com.