Sometimes all it takes to get going is the first step!
Inspiration
I don't know about you, but I don't spend a whole lot of time thinking about walking. I just do it. It's nothing out of the ordinary, it's simply a mode of transportation... right?
Well, yes. But I think it could be so much more.
I was inspired to talk about walking after going on a walk with one of my dear friends the other day. We both had spent the day traveling back from Thanksgiving Break and I felt the need to get my body moving, so I texted her and asked if she wanted to go for a walk. For the next hour, we strolled about the campus. Not only was it a time of physical fitness, but of fellowship. We talked about how much we've grown since starting college, things we are thankful for, classes we like, the future, and so much more.
It was such a great way to start the week, and I didn't even realize how powerful an hour of walking with a friend could be!
Science Speaks
Not only do I see the importance of walking, but there's science, research, and articles that agree! After doing some research, here are some of the health-benefits of walking:
Reduced tiredness that can increase mental alertness
Better quality sleep
Increases mood, decreases stress
Walking can lower blood pressure
Being active improves mental health and self-esteem
Stronger bones and improved balance
Can lead to fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety
You can do it alone or with people or pets
It's easy and accessible!
Most of us have heard the recommended "10,000 steps per day" mantra, but I never truly understood why fitness experts were so adamant about that number. Well, it's because it actually works! An active mind favors an active body, and walking is a simple way to care for your physical and mental health. Yet, so often we underestimate its power and benefits.
Savvy Speaks
Personally, I can see a difference in myself when I've spent parts of my day walking versus when I don't. For that, I can thank college. I'm constantly walking from class to class, building to building, to and fro across campus. In fact, my Apple Watch thinks I'm a marathoner now that I easily get way over 10,000 steps per day!
Anyways, when I spend the day walking, I see that I feel more at peace. It gives me time to think or to simply observe those around me—it's peaceful. It also creates a sense of purpose by knowing that I have a destination waiting for me. It is designated time to get my body moving and give my brain a break during the school day. It's an amazing thing to be able to find meaning within the seemingly mundane. How wonderful it is to walk!
I know this is a completely random post, but I wanted to share it with you nonetheless. It's an encouragement to me that something that I do every day is benefitting my long-term mental, physical, and social health. I encourage you to take those first steps (pun intended!) to short-term self-care and long term health care by walking every day.
Read More from the Sources
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