Why Walking Does Wonders For Your Mental and Physical Health

You do it all the time. You do it at home, you do it at work, and you do it at the mall, but you may not even realize how good it is for you. Doctors advocate that you walk 10,0000 steps a day, yet most of us barely do half that amount, and a number of us may not even hit 1,000 a day, leading to all sorts of health issues. Yet most of us remain unaware of the importance of walking in a healthy lifestyle.

Walking is one of the best exercises you can do and it’s so easy to do. For starters, it reduces your risk of contracting diseases like Type II Diabetes by building and maintaining a healthy circulatory system and increasing blood flow through the body. It strengthens muscle and increases bone density. At the same time, it helps you maintain your weight. Just a brisk walk through your neighborhood or on the treadmill can make a world of difference!

Additionally, walking releases chemicals known as endorphins whenever you walk for a certain amount of time. Endorphins are the reason you feel so good after exercising – they are literally a natural drug that increases your sense of well-being and relaxation. The end result is you with a smile on your face and a leaner, more trim body. And all this without having to pop pills or sweat for hours at the gym!

In this day and age of stressful jobs and busy schedules, it’s always good to have a place outside of your work or home where you can just relax. Let walking take you to that place. Even a ten minute walk through around a local park can help to clear your mind and ready you for the day ahead.

Walking is free, can be done in your own neighborhood, and best of all, anyone can do it. All that you need is a good pair of walking shoes and you’re ready to go. It has been proven that walking with a friend or partner increases bonds and strengthens friendship, so grab a friend and go for a walk today. You’ll be surprised at all the benefits it brings you!