The amazing mental health benefits of walking every day
The majority of these walking benefits are associated with quick walks that get the heart pounding, but when it comes to mental health, a leisurely walk can provide the same benefits as a brisk one. Walking deliberately allows us to be more aware of our surroundings, and we may see things we haven’t seen before, even though we’ve lived or worked in the region for years.
[adinserter block=”5″]
Take some time the next time you go on a walk to look up at the buildings around you and notice the architecture or strange small objects people might have on their balconies. Look down as well, and take note of all the indications of nature still working in the face of adversity, such as weeds growing through pavement cracks. How awesome is that?
Take deep breaths and take in all of the sights, smells, and sounds of your surroundings. It’s quite mentally stimulating. Exercise, such as brisk walking, releases endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals like serotonin that make us feel good, nearly high. So alternate between quick walking and a leisurely stroll to release all those endorphins. Walking has been shown in studies to help reduce feelings of anxiety, despair, and negativity, as well as increase esteem and lessen the consequences of social withdrawal. So it’s just what the doctor prescribed!
[adinserter block=”2″]
