Is it time to start walking now?

May 2021

It has been a long year of staying indoors more than usual for most of us! Things are starting to open gradually as the pandemic fears ease. We have pent up energy, and many are feeling urgent about shedding some extra weight - but going to the gym might not be possible, or even the best answer for everyone.

One of the most powerful ways to maintain a healthy weight, stay strong, and live longer is so shockingly simple, even a toddler can do it, says one Prevention article. All you have to do is put one foot in front of the other. "Walking has always been my main source of cardio, and except for when I was pregnant, I've been the same weight my entire life!" says fitness expert Denise Austin.

Something as simple as a 30-minute walk every day can have remarkable benefits - plus, it costs nothing, doesn't require fancy equipment, and you don't have to travel (you can even do it inside your home if necessary! Do you have a treadmill or long hallways?).

Here's a handful of the many benefits you'll gain from a good walk:

1) Walking will improve your mood.

According to Dr. Jampolis, "Research shows that regular walking actually modifies your nervous system so much that you'll experience a decrease in anger and hostility," she says, especially when you're going for a stroll through some greenery or soaking in a bit of sunlight. This can be particularly helpful during the colder months, when seasonal depression spikes.

2) Your other goals will start to seem more reachable.

When you become a regular walker, you will have established a regular routine - and when you have a routine, you are more likely to continue with the activity and take on new healthy behaviors. "I firmly believe that walking regularly can help you to accomplish other goals you set your mind to," says Kim Evans, a personal trainer and daily walker.

3) Walking can help you feel more creative.

Whether you're feeling stuck at work or you've been searching for a solution to a tricky problem, research shows it's a good idea to get moving: According to a study in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, Learning, Memory, and Cognition, going for a walk can spark creativity. "Researchers administered creative-thinking tests to subjects while seated and while walking and found that the walkers thought more creatively than the sitters," says Dr. Jampolis.

4) You'll sleep better at night.

If you work out regularly, you'll sleep better at night. That's because sleep naturally boosts the effects of melatonin, the sleep hormone. Walking also helps reduce pain and stress, which can cause sleep disturbances.

For those who have physical conditions that make walking difficult or impossible, consider gentle exercise such as stretching, chair yoga, or swimming as alternatives that can yield many of the same physical and psychological benefits.

If you've been feeling overwhelmed by the idea of getting back into shape this year, simply walking could be a way to move into gear and can help you feel better, think better, and even reconnect with friends or family if you do it together outdoors.

I hope that you're enjoying the return of spring and warmer weather as much as I am. Please remember that I'm your friend in the home lending business and I'd love to hear from you.

Please drop me an email or call if you have any questions - or someone you know is in need of expert advice. I love to help those you care about. Your referrals are the heart and lifeblood of my business.