Walking is man’s best medicine.

Hippocrates

We all understand the importance of regular exercise for our health and fitness. Yet we have a wealth of options: Aerobics, Weightlifting, Treadmill, Jogging, Hiking, Crossfit, and Fitness Classes. This can easily create the problem of “decision paralysis.” 

Walking outdoors is one of the easiest and best options to consider as you try to develop a more active lifestyle. Many experts and articles recommend that you walk 10,000 steps per day. Some research studies have shown that a daily goal of 5,000 steps is more realistic. Simply walking at least 15 minutes per day can have many positive health benefits.

Here are 10 positive health benefits from regular walking:

1. Improved heart health
2. Weight loss
3. Lower blood pressure
4. Improved glucose control
5. Improved balance, coordination, and bone strength
6. Increased immune function
7. Increased muscle strength
8. Improved digestion
9. Reduced stress
10. Better sleep

There is evidence that walking can provide some unexpected benefits. It can significantly improve your creativity, problem solving, and decision-making. Walking in a nature setting affords the opportunity for wakeful meditation. Additionally, walking outdoors provides the added benefit of Vitamin D from exposure to the sun. Yet, treadmill work still yields many positive health changes.

Set a goal for yourself for a short walk in the morning or after dinner. Slowly increase your time and pace. I’m sure that you will notice many benefits.

A few more quotes about walking:

All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.

Friedrich Nietzsche

I understood at a very early age that in nature, I felt everything I should feel in church but never did. Walking in the woods, I felt in touch with the universe and with the spirit of the universe.

Alice Walker

Perhaps walking is best imagined as an ‘indicator species,’ to use an ecologist’s term. An indicator species signifies the health of an ecosystem, and its endangerment or diminishment can be an early warning sign of systemic trouble. Walking is an indicator species for various kinds of freedom and pleasures: free time, free and alluring space, and unhindered bodies.

Rebecca Solnit

Walking is the best possible exercise. Habituate yourself to walk very far.

Thomas Jefferson

As always, we are here for you. Please email or call if you want to set up a meeting or talk by phone.

Ralph Broadwater, M.D., CFP®

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