Walk for life: An underrated exercise form

Rigmarole of our fast paced routines contributes to increased incidents of chronic diseases. These Long-term illness namely diabetes, Cardiovascular disorders, hypertension,diabetes, stroke, etc. are often associated with the lifestyle practices and are also known as lifestyle diseases, since most of the ailments stem from bad eating habits, sedentary routine, stresses.

Health benefits of physical activity are stressed upon by health professionals to cultivate a health lifestyle approach in people. Numerous forms of physical activities can be adopted to keep with the standards of healthy living. Walking is one under-rated physical activity that is often ignored but the vast physical and mental health benefits that can be reaped by merely walking a certain number of steps everyday are huge .To study the effects of walking on blood pressure and stroke ,a recent systemic review done by Cochrane( gold standard of scientific evidence), data from 22 countries suggested potential benefits specifically in maintaining healthy blood pressure and other potential health benefits. Not only does this low cost mode of physical activity is a great way to practice a more active lifestyle but a great way to reduce stress and an effective mood boosters. Daily walk could be a perfect family activity children, adults and elderly can bond together and take time out from the busy schedules to spend quality hours with loved ones.

The science verdict backs persistence is the key slogan, to get the most benefits and see a difference in your health status it takes up to 3 months 20–40 minutes of moderate intensity continuous walk(moderate intensity is classified by light sweat and heavy breathing) 4/5 times. The U.S department of health and human services suggests 150 minutes walk per week for an active lifestyle.

To keep it fun and interesting listen to some upbeat music and you’ll love your walk time for life, if you are a family person take a walk with your children, parents or spouse, you’ll get quality time to bond and encourage each other to stay healthy together. Or if you’re blessed with lush nature around your home take a hike while reliving the wonderful experience exquisite nature brings.

Mental health benefits

I started walking to get active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Its been years since I adopted walk as a daily routine, Its my ME-TIME .I feel energized and happier after a good walk .With some good music its a quick economical way to keep ourselves fit, active and happy. Heath professionals and fitness enthusiasts rave about heath gains walking offers with reduced cardiovascular diseases, hypertension,diabetes to name a few .The mental health advantages are added perks along with others

Stress relief

Better sleep

Increased endurance

Uplifts Mood

Healthy metabolism

Maintains weight

Promotes joint mobility

Helps lower blood pressure

Regulates blood sugar levels

So, how walk is good for psychological health?? Walking promotes blood circulation to the brain and body. An increased blood flow have a positive influence on your central nervous response system HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) .HPA is responsible for stress responses. Significant physical activity through walking can reduce stress and calm your nerves. With the recent pandemic the amount of undue stresses has been accelerated, walking can be a perfect activity to adopt for its significant physical and mental effects. Let’s walk your way out of this pandemic with sustainable lifestyle and better health.

Pro Tip: Invest in a good pair of walking shoes to avoid any discomfort during/after walk.