My Sonshine
Why Walk
When I am feeling stressed, unmotivated, or unhappy, it is really helpful to do things that can make myself feel better quickly. One that works best for me is a brisk walk around the neighborhood or at the park. Walking is a great way to improve or maintain overall health. Unlike some other forms of exercise, walking is free and doesn’t require any special equipment or training.
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I found walking very beneficial for the body and mind. It makes me less depressed, less angry, more energized, and more mindful.
There is no habit you will value so much as that of walking far without fatigue.
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Thomas Jefferson
Why walking is so good for your body and your mind?
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Walking as part of routine
I walk for at least 30 minutes as briskly as I can on most days of the week. ‘Brisk’ means that I can still talk but not sing, and I may be puffing slightly. I used to walk with my family and we did it as our evening activity. I also use pedometer in my smartwatch to measure my movement throughout the day and surprisingly, it motivate me to move more. The recommended number of steps accumulated per day to achieve health benefits is 10,000 steps or more.
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Health benefits of walking
I carry my own body weight when I walk. This is known as weight-bearing exercise. Some of the physical benefits include:
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increased cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) fitness
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reduced risk of heart disease and stroke
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improved management of conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, joint and muscular pain or stiffness, and diabetes
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stronger bones and improved balance
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increased muscle strength and endurance
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reduced body fat.
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How walking can benefit your mental health
​Walking offers the physical benefits of exercise while also boosting the mental and emotional well-being.
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Reduces Stress. One of the most common mental health benefits of exercise is stress relief, as exercise increases concentrations of brain chemicals that moderate our response to stress.
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Boosts ‘feel good’ chemicals. Exercise releases endorphins which creates feelings of happiness and euphoria.
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Alleviates Anxiety. The chemicals that are released during and after exercise can help people with anxiety maintain their sense of calm.
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Increases Relaxation. A moderate workout can be the equivalent of a sleeping pill, even for people with insomnia.
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Improves Self-Worth. Physical fitness can boost self-worth and improve your self-image in a positive and active way.