Daily Exercise: Reasons to Get Your Walk On
By Genevieve Smith
You might think that to stay ahead of health, you’ve got to work out hard. That is not necessarily the case. At the very least, strive for a brisk walk 30 minutes per day to uncover perks for your mood and health. Numerous studies have cited the benefits of exercise, a daily dose of sunshine, time spent in the outdoors, and the joys of exploring.
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Low impact and an opportunity to get some essential sunshine and sightseeing, walking is a great way to engage with your fitness goals. Not only is it good for physical health, but also mental health, as a good walk can clear your mind as you sip in your surroundings. Let’s take a look at the other allures of a daily walk.
Major mood booster - Studies have found that walking outside has an impact on mental health. A look at those classified as depressed published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that daily walks beat out the effects of medication when it came to lifting spirits. Moreover, the positive impact of a walk lasted longer than the effects of prescribed medication, and 60 to 70 percent of the patients were no longer classifiable as depressed at the end of the study. While this is one natural way to approach depression, always consult a doctor before making any changes!
A source for creative thinking - Walking improves both convergent and divergent thinking, the kinds linked with creative thinking. If you’re at a standstill on an idea, or looking to generate fresh perspectives, pop on some shoes and head out for a walk.
Fuel for metabolism - A sedentary lifestyle unfortunately beckons diabetes, heart disease, and premature death. By getting the heart pumping, you can combat high blood pressure and reverse the effects of inactivity. Take to a brisk pace with your walk to get back into a routine that your heart will thank you for.
An opportunity for longevity - Studies have found that daily exercise adds years to your life, regardless of your weight. Thanks to the mood-boosting effects of daily walking and varied exercise, those years should be enjoyable. Find enthusiasm for your future by hopping off the couch and getting outdoors.
Walking is a wonderful way to get exploring, get sweating, and get thinking. It’s low impact and low commitment. You don’t need particularly specialized gear, and you’re not tied to a specific location. Find freedom in a daily walk, and help ward off heart disease, depression or stress. A new walk is just around the corner. Enjoy!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Baytown, Tex.
