The classic saying is, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but there’s a good chance that taking a walk can help you avoid the doctor’s office. Because walking is a low-impact exercise, it is a great starting place for people who are trying to get in shape. Walking on a regular basis can help improve digestion, boost your mood, and help you lose weight in the process.
Walking Is An Easy Habit To Create
It can be hard for a healthy habit to take hold, especially when you make them unrealistic. Walking is a very easy activity that is more effective than you think at propelling you towards a healthier lifestyle. Vowing to go to the gym three or four times a week may be more unrealistic than you think. You can walk anywhere, so start walking and experience some of the following benefits.
#1: You’ll Become More “Regular”
Not a lot of people like to talk about poop, but it is one of the primary ways you’re your body eliminates waste. Everyone does not have a properly functioning digestive system, but walking can help change that. Rather than relying on a laxative or certain food to have a bowel movement, start walking because it stimulates digestion and helps you pass food more efficiently.
#2: It Reduces Stress
Being in nature has been proven to help reduce stress levels. Why not kill two birds with one stone? Exercise also works to reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body. Let yourself decompress after a long day at the office by taking a walk, even if it’s a little chilly outside.
#3: Boosts Your Mood
A recent study showed that walking for at least 30 minutes a day works to modify your nervous system, ultimately helping to decrease anger or hostility. Additionally, if you are walking during the day, the sunlight works to ward off feelings of sadness. If you want to really boost your mood, make your walks social by walking with a friend, colleague, or relative.
#4: You’ll Shed Some Pounds
Walking is one of the best ways to help your body burn fat. The body uses fat for fuel during your walk, which helps you get rid of unwanted weight. Walking also helps to boost your metabolism, which plays an important role in losing weight.
#5: Your Legs Will Look Great
Getting older means that your risk of developing varicose veins increases. Walking has been proven to improve circulation in the legs. Leading a sedentary lifestyle can cause blood to remain in the lower legs, while walking helps to push blood back up to the heart and lungs, ultimately reducing your risk of varicose veins. Daily walking also works to reduce swelling or restlessness in the legs.
Walking can have the aforementioned benefits, but you have to work on eating healthy to have the best results. Exercise and diet go hand in hand when it comes to becoming a healthier person. Don’t hinder yourself by eating unhealthy foods. Check out our recipe section to make healthier meals.
