Health professionals are encouraging us to walk back to happiness. Research shows that regular walking promotes overall mental, physical and emotional well-being.
Regular walking improves our mind. Research indicates that stepping out regularly reduces the likelihood of developing a mental impairment - including dementia. A recent study demonstrated that female nurses over the age of 70, who walked at least 6 hours per week, demonstrated a higher level of cognitive functioning than women who engaged in minimal physical activity. Research conducted at the University of Western Australia also revealed improvements in mental functioning, as a result of walking for 15 minutes, 3 times a week.
Moving about on foot improves our mental well-being, by easing tension and helping us to relax. Research shows that the increase in blood flow to the heart and brain produced by regular exercise strengthens brain cells and lowers stress. The rhythm of walking is another contributing factor, studies indicate. The right-left brain connection is stimulated when we swing our arms in opposition to our legs, producing a calming effect on our overall state of mind.
Regular walking improves our mind. Research indicates that stepping out regularly reduces the likelihood of developing a mental impairment - including dementia. A recent study demonstrated that female nurses over the age of 70, who walked at least 6 hours per week, demonstrated a higher level of cognitive functioning than women who engaged in minimal physical activity. Research conducted at the University of Western Australia also revealed improvements in mental functioning, as a result of walking for 15 minutes, 3 times a week.
Moving about on foot improves our mental well-being, by easing tension and helping us to relax. Research shows that the increase in blood flow to the heart and brain produced by regular exercise strengthens brain cells and lowers stress. The rhythm of walking is another contributing factor, studies indicate. The right-left brain connection is stimulated when we swing our arms in opposition to our legs, producing a calming effect on our overall state of mind.
Walking elevates overall mood. The act of walking for 30 minutes enhances our general sense of well-being, regardless of whether we are outdoors - or even watching television as we walk on the treadmill.
When we walk, natural”happy drugs” known as endorphins are released in the body. Although research shows that walking at an increased pace will intensify the effects gained from the exercise, moving more slowly is still very beneficial.
When we walk, natural”happy drugs” known as endorphins are released in the body. Although research shows that walking at an increased pace will intensify the effects gained from the exercise, moving more slowly is still very beneficial.
Walking can promote emotional well-being by enhancing our self-esteem and confidence. Our body shape and fitness level will benefit from regularly engaging in this type of exercise. Investing at least 30 minutes a day in brisk walking will assist in reducing body fat, studies show. To prevent over-exertion of the body, walkers should ensure that they are still able to talk, but not sing, while walking – although their speech may be slightly breathless.
Walking improves well-being by reducing isolation and fostering social networks. We have a greater opportunity to meet people when we travel by foot, rather than drive to our destination. Walking in the company of others - family, friends or club members - can also help strengthen relationships. Engaging in this type of activity is socially inclusive and encourages community connectedness.
Many health professionals promote regular walking as a natural means of combating daily blues. In some cases of mild to moderate depression, incorporating brisk walking in our daily routine can prove as effective as medication. While our technological gadgets encourage us to become “couch potatoes”, it is vital for our physical, mental and emotional health that we maintain an active lifestyle. Walking is the simplest, least expensive and most rewarding means of achieving this goal.
Many health professionals promote regular walking as a natural means of combating daily blues. In some cases of mild to moderate depression, incorporating brisk walking in our daily routine can prove as effective as medication. While our technological gadgets encourage us to become “couch potatoes”, it is vital for our physical, mental and emotional health that we maintain an active lifestyle. Walking is the simplest, least expensive and most rewarding means of achieving this goal.
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