Self quarantine is really important for our nation right now, however I have learned a quick solo-walk around my neighborhood is all it takes to keep my mind from racing about the not-so-good news around us. Not to mention, I really need the fresh and vitamin D to lighten up my mood. As a mom quarantined with my two adorable yet demanding children, I am dedicating a few minutes a day to walking as part of my self-care.
Walking has significant, proven health benefits. Here are our 10 favorites:
- Walking puts you in a better mood. Many studies have shown a link between walking for exercise and improved mood and lower stress. Walking in nature can amplify these benefits.
- Walking can reduce your blood pressure. A study in Korea showed decreased blood pressure when subjects walked 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
- Walking will help you lose weight. Walking burns more calories, but it can also help offset genetic tendencies towards obesity. According to a Harvard study, one hour of walking a day can reduce these influences by half.
- Walking can help fight cancer. Another Harvard study showed women who walked just 1 to 3 hours per week reduced their risk of death from breast and uterine cancers by 19%. And men with prostate cancer 57% less likely to see their disease progress if they walked at least 3 hours a week.
- Walking is good for your bones. A Nurse’s Health study showed that women who walk 4 hours or more a week saw a 40% reduction in hip fractures.
- Walking is good for your heart. Walking 30 minutes a day at a medium pace can reduce a woman’s risk of heart disease by 40% per a Harvard Study.
- Walking can help you sleep better. Walking outdoors, especially in the morning, can help your body get in tune with our natural daily rhythms. The activity and daylight can set your internal clock and help you fall asleep faster and sleep better that night.
- Walking is great if you are pregnant.According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, walking 30 minutes a day can help prevent back problems, swelling constipation and other “joys” of pregnancy.
- Walking helps you solve problems. Walking calms your nerves and your brain, allowing you to think more creatively and solve problems. Since walking occupies some of your brain, it productively distracts the jumpy part, while allowing the creative part to do its thing. Stuck on a problem? Go for a walk.
Ready to start walking? Join us for the April challenge and save $5! Click here and use the code Conyers5!
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Macaroni Kid Stonecrest-Conyers-Covington is a free weekly newsletter and website focused on fun family events and information in the South Dekalb, Newton, Rockdale, and Walton counties. We gather together all kinds of local family events and activities each week and add useful information about classes, local businesses, book and product reviews, recipes, crafts, school and camp guides and more. Subscribe for free at Conyers.macaronikid.com
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