Hippocrates stated, “Walking is a man’s best medicine.”
Tuning into ancient wisdom is something we are doing more and more these days. And, the science backing up what people knew thousands of years ago is helping those who may be a bit skeptical jump on board.
WHY SCIENCE IS SAYING WALKING IS AN UNDERRATED FORM OF EXERCISE
OUR BODIES ARE MADE FOR WALKING
Walking is not only an amazing form of exercise but it’s one of the best things you can do to clear your mind, relax, and even get your creative juices flowing
The British Journal of Sports Medicine found a consistent walking routine can improve blood pressure, reduce body fat and weight, as well as improve depression. Over time, walking can also increase overall endurance.
A Stanford University study found that walking can increase creative output by an average of 60 percent. The philosopher Friedrich Nietzche wrote, “All truly great thoughts are conceived by walking.” Ever go for a walk and the ideas start flowing? Yep, me too!
Making lifestyle changes can be overwhelming for most people. One of the simplest pieces of advice I give to clients when they are starting their journey to healing is to go for a walk.
Walking isn’t complicated. It requires a pair of shoes and either heading outside or jumping on the treadmill. It’s that simple.
5 SURPRISING HEALTH BENEFITS OF WALKING
1. WALKING REDUCES STRESS
Walking is one of the best ways to relieve stress. When we move our bodies, we stimulate the production of endorphins. Endorphins activate opioid receptors in the brain resulting in feelings of happiness and euphoria. In addition, walking gives us time to think and process whatever is on our minds.
2. WALKING EASES JOINT AND ARTHRITIS PAIN
The same endorphins that make us feel good can also ease pain from inflammation and arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation recommends walking for anyone suffering from arthritis in any joint. Walking strengthens muscles, increases balance and improves overall health. It also helps to maintain a healthy weight leading to less stress on joints.
3. WALKING IMPROVES MEMORY
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that walking for 40 minutes three times a week for a year increased the size of the hippocampus by an average of 2 percent. The hippocampus plays an important role in both short and long term memory.
4. WALKING INCREASES ENERGY
Moving your body may be the last thing you feel like doing when fatigue sets in, but walking has been shown to increase energy levels. According to a University of Georgia study, people who regularly struggle with fatigue can decrease their fatigue by 65% simply by engaging in regular, low-intensity exercise.
5. WALKING LEADS TO SWEET DREAMS
People who exercise tend to have an easier time falling and staying asleep. Exercise boosts natural sleep hormones such as melatonin. An evening walk is a perfect remedy if you suffer from insomnia.
IT’S HARD TO ARGUE WITH THE RESEARCH
I believe without a doubt walking is one of the best things we can do each day to improve our health in mind, body, and spirit.
It’s the perfect form of exercise regardless of your current fitness level and can be done anywhere and at anytime. Are you taking a walk today? Tell us in the comments below.
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