How Walking Improves Your Health

Posted: Sep 20 in Weight Loss Blog by

Do you feel like you are in a rut? Are you feeling both mentally and physically run down? Try adding a 20 minute walk to your daily routine. Walking is a great low-impact exercise that has many benefits. Just 20 minutes of focused walking can improve your overall mental and physical health.

Mental Health

Focused walking is a great way to clear your mind and improve your creativity. As you walk, your brain releases endorphins. These endorphins are neurochemicals that improve brain function and boost your mood. This makes you feel happier, and decreases your chances of having depression.

If your creativity is suffering or you are feeling unfocused, take a 20 minute walk to clear your mind. Walking increases blood flow to the brain, allowing your brain to receive more oxygen. This improves your cognitive function allowing your creativity to flow.

If you are walking to clear your mind, focus on the moment. Your walk should be enjoyable. Concentrate on your breathing and your walk. Take in the environment around you. Feel the air and soak up the sun. Do not think about whatever is causing your anxiety or stress.

Physical Health

Walking 20 minutes a day can improve your physical health. It helps you to burn calories, which increases your metabolism. This helps you to lose weight. Walking lowers your blood sugar levels, decreasing your chances of getting diabetes. It strengthens heart and lung function.

Walking is great for joints and muscles. Walking increases blood flow to muscles around the joints. This improves range of motion and flexibility, which alleviates inflammation and arthritis pain.

Another physical benefit of walking daily is better sleep. Insomnia is linked to anxiety and depression. Because blood flow and oxygen levels increase during walking, your body is functioning better. You will find yourself sleeping more soundly. However, it is best not to walk right before bedtime. Allow yourself a couple hours to wind down before bed.

How do you get the most from your walks? If you can, add some small hills to your path. This will give you a little extra cardio for more calorie burning. Clear your mind so that you can focus on the actual walk. Being present in the moment will help to calm your mind and body. If you are not the solitary type, invite a friend. If you have someone holding you accountable, you are more likely to stick to a routine. Make your walks enjoyable, not just exercise.

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