Walking for Wellness

There are so many ways to exercise, and programs promising results pretty much anywhere you look. If you feel like you’re not getting enough exercise, you may not need to start with a boot camp – you can start with literally a step.

As simple as it sounds, walking can be one of the simplest and easiest ways to improve your wellness. You can start with ten minutes at a time, or even just walking to the end of your street and back. For many, that’s the best way to start – shorter walks that build into longer walks. The point is really just to start walking. It’s that simple!

Once you see how easy it is, set a goal for yourself. It could be a number of steps, a length of time, or a certain distance. There are plenty of apps out there that can help you, as well as various pedometer options on the market. As you make walking a habit, gradually increase your goal. What may have seemed tough at first will gradually seem normal.

If you’re concerned about health risks, talk to your doctor. Make sure that your shoes are comfortable and provide good support, and choose areas to walk where there are even surfaces and good light. It’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, and a walking partner is a great idea. Not only will it help to make those minutes pass quickly, but it can also help you stay motivated.

Don’t forget hydration! Water is essential to keep you moving, and it’s especially important when you’re active. You also don’t want to risk dehydration in warmer weather.

So how does walking increase wellness? It’s a gentle way to increase movement, which helps your body as a whole. It’s even shown to help lift your mood and increase your mental clarity. It helps lower blood pressure, strengthens muscles, and can even help you lose weight which reduces pressure on your joints. Walking is a wonderful way to wellness.