How to Make Walking Really Work for You
By Sandy Schroeder
You may be using walking as a way to sit less and move more at work and at home. Getting out of your chair and heading out for a short walk can be a refreshing option.
With your doctor’s approval, it’s a great way to meet the health recommendation to get 30 minutes of daily exercise. All you really need is a pair of good walking shoes and a preferred direction.
The only problem that I encounter is the temptation to let it slide. An important deadline, long phone call, or the need to do an errand, can slide right into my walking time.
Making Walking a Habit
But there are ways to make daily walking a habit. Here are some tips from Harvard Health.
Make It a Creative Moment – I have friends who say they do their best thinking when they are out walking. Those creative boosts can easily become a welcome part of the day.
Always Have a Plan B – When your morning walk gets blown off, have backup options, like 15 minutes in the afternoon, or after work. If the weather interferes, use a local mall or other indoor facility.
Signal a Habit – Link your daily walk to a regular event, like breakfast, lunch or dinner, to create a habit.
Look for New Things – Test your powers of observation when you are out there. Look for changes along your favorite walks. Imagine what will happen next.
Walk with Your Kids – When you take a child along, the world can look totally different. You might be amazed at how much they notice that we may miss. It can be fun to pick up stones or make up stories. It may also prove to be a great time to hear about your child’s day or learn his or her thoughts.
Invite Your Dog Or a Buddy – Walking the dog is a winner according to health researchers. If you don’t have a dog, look for a buddy at work or in your neighborhood.
Keep Sneakers On Hand – Putting an extra pair in your car lets you walk whenever you have a few extra minutes.
Keep Changing Directions – Make walking a fresh adventure with new destinations. Pick a new park or path. Walk, instead of driving, to the local pharmacy.
However walking works for you, weaving it into your daily routine could be one of the smartest health moves you could make. Health researchers tell us walking can help us slim down, release stress, and fight serious disease. See you out there.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.