Have You Looked Out the Window Lately?
By Tom Herrin
Living in the virtual shadow of the state capital provides some special opportunities. The hustle and bustle of Austin is right at your fingertips. At the same time, you can enjoy the suburban life available only in the Texas Hill Country. The amenities in Cedar Park are quite inviting. There are some creative parks as well as the excitement of minor league professional sports. It is all out there for your enjoyment. It may be a super time to begin a new exercise habit. You owe it to yourself.
But I Don’t Run Or Play Golf
You don’t have to be overly aggressive or competitive. Walking can be an escape from the everyday grind and provide you with some needed activity at the same time. Sometimes a walk just around the neighborhood can be both good exercise and relaxing. You may see some things you just haven’t noticed. Take a good look around you. There are also plenty of parks to explore. That gives you an opportunity to meet people or just go on about your business, whichever way the mood strikes you. It is your own personal escape.
Can The Exercise Really Benefit You?
Walking can be an exercise program of its own. You can start with a leisurely stroll and increase to a brisk walk. It is completely up to you. I would caution you. Walking can be addictive. Many times when you begin to walk regularly, you will get to a point where you can’t wait to get home and walk for 30 minutes or an hour. Before you know it, you will have improved your overall health and trimmed up at the same time. There are no limits to what you can accomplish once you start.
You Might Even Save Fuel
It may sound funny, but a lot of times you may find yourself looking for reasons to walk somewhere. A lot of people begin to do things walking that they previously got in their cars to do. Just doing things like walking to a corner convenience store or walking to a neighbor’s house or even walking to your child’s school can be easy and enjoyable. You may find that leaving your car at home while you do some simple errand actually adds up to a real savings in a short period of time. Whether you walk alone or with a group of friends or family, you will reap some pretty good benefits. If you have children, think of what you are teaching them. Hopefully they will pick up on your good habits and incorporate them in their own lives. So look out that window. There may be a whole new world waiting for you.
