The Benefits of Taking a Walk Everyday

Did you know that walking can actually increase and boost your serotonin levels? Serotonin is a feel good hormone in your body and when physically active, those levels can increase. An increase in serotonin can help your brain function better by reducing feelings of anxiety, exhaustion and depression, while increasing your sense of peace and contentment, one of the most important walking benefits. Walking can help you clear your mind and bring mental clarity, when you aren’t feeling your best.

The easiest way to start feeling healthier is through improving your exercise and diet. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America. Walking helps increase blood flow, which can help naturally lower cholesterol and blood pressure. It is recommended that adults incorporate approximately thirty minutes of physical activity each day. It’s as easy as taking a ten minute walk in the morning, on your lunch break and then in the evening to reach thirty minutes of physical activity per day. Remember if you can not get thirty minutes of activity in, at least try for ten minutes a day- any physical activity is better than nothing, so take a walk today!

There are many external factors that can contribute to our stress from school, to work, family, friends, personal problems, and issues that are often out of your control. You can alleviate and find stress relief by walking everyday. Walking is known to help release endorphins in the brain that help us to relax and by feeling relaxed we can focus on being mindful and present. Stress relief is a very important reason to take a walk everyday.

The benefits of walking extend throughout the entire body. Since walking is considered low-impact, it is a suitable activity for those that have sore joints or muscles. Tight and stiff joints usually need to be stretched and get moving in order to lubricate them. The more lubricated your joints, the better they may feel. If pain or chronic illness prevents you from doing any high intensity interval workouts or high-impact activities, walking can be a great alternative! If you have sore or achy muscles in general, walking supports good blood flow to those sore and achy spots. What’s even better is that walking can be adjusted to your own needs, so whether you speed walk or go at a slower pace- you’re still up and moving!

The best part about walking is that it is fun, easy and free to do!  Outdoor walking has the added benefit of letting you explore new neighborhoods and surroundings. Put on your favorite, comfortable sneakers (and don’t forget to add in your Fulton insoles for customized foot arch support) and get moving! Catch up with your friends, listen to a podcast, ponder with your thoughts, get some much needed alone time or have some much needed family time, enjoy being in nature, whatever it may be- go outside and get your walk on! Whether you have ten minutes or thirty minutes to spare, find a way to fit walking into your day.

• To get started walking, all you’ll need is a pair of sturdy walking shoes with supportive, comfortable and shock absorbing insoles like those from Fulton. 
• Choose a walking route near your home. Or for an outdoor walk, look for a scenic place to walk in your area, such as a trail or on the beach.
• You can also recruit a friend or family member to walk with you and hold you accountable. Alternatively, you can add walking into your daily routine. Here are some ideas:
  • If you commute, get off your bus or train one stop early and walk the rest of the way to work.
  • Park farther away from your office than usual and walk to and from your car.
  • Consider walking instead of driving when you run errands. You can complete your tasks and fit in exercise at the same time.