the value of a daily walk

I’m a runner so I always turned my nose up at the idea of going for a walk. I would tell myself that I’m too busy. Or that I had so many other things that I could/should be doing besides walking. But walking is actually the most popular physical activity among adults. And for good reason – the benefits of walking are awesome.

Three years ago we got a puppy. A yellow lab. He needs to walk. And he loves to walk. So I would walk him on a leash around our neighborhood with the goal of tiring him out. But it was always a little stressful for me. Pulling him where I wanted him to go, watching for cars, cleaning up after him. It was a chore. Then I decided to take him for a walk in the woods behind our neighborhood. And now this almost-daily walk has transformed from a needed dog chore into a clear-my-head, little bit of me time. I actually look forward to our walks now. We usually do the same route everyday, maybe 2 miles max. And it takes us about 25 minutes. Nothing crazy or too time consuming. But it gives me some time to unwind and think. I think about my day and what I need to do. I brainstorm. I think about anything that’s bothering me. And sometimes I don’t really think about anything at all and I just take in all the beautiful details of nature.

In addition to these walks being therapeutic, they are also my little daily adventures. We {me and my dog} see tons of wildlife {sometimes that’s not so good with a dog}, find beautiful little treasures, and just enjoy the scenery {mostly just me}. All this good stuff, and walking has so many health benefits such as:

• lowers your risk of health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes
• strengthens your bones and muscles
• helps you burn calories
• lifts your mood

Now since I live in the Northeast, walking is very enjoyable for two-thirds of the year. Then comes winter. And I don’t love the cold. I don’t even like it. I try to still get out almost everyday and walk, unless it’s raining, snowing or just way too cold. Dressing appropriately is key.

So even if you don’t have a dog, or if you’re super-duper busy, try to find the time for a daily walk. Go with your dog, your spouse, your friend, or by yourself. And go to places you enjoy – a park, a shopping center, or a walking path in the woods. It might be a calming and therapeutic solution to your busy life. Disconnect and enjoy your surroundings and think about whatever’s on your mind. Or don’t think about anything at all. Our lives are moving so fast and technology is making it hard for us to get in that personal time of reflection. And it has definitely prevented us – and our kids – from getting outside as much as we should. Plus you’ll be doing something healthy.

Here are a few sites about walking if you want more information:

The Walking Site

US Dept of Health & Human Services

About Health

Have a wonderful weekend – maybe you’ll be able to squeeze in a walk?