Did you know that walking is a useful exercise for your physique and a tool that promotes brain health? Maybe you have experienced the feeling of being energized, focused, and calm after walking. Well, that is one of the positive effects of walking. Here is how walking can actually help in managing your stress:
1. Spending time in nature relieves stress
Nature offers beautiful landscapes that can gently attract your attention instead of suddenly snatching it, which calms your nerves. Several studies have proven that spending time outdoors relieves stress by alleviating feelings of time pressure and mental stress. So why not take walking a way to escape the rat race.
2. Calms the brain
According to research, taking a walk in the great outdoors shifts your brain into a calmer state. It was found that walking through green spaces leads the mind to a meditative state. This act triggers involuntary attention, which means it occupies attention while also allowing for reflection. Start walking in the park nearby to enjoy the health benefits while experiencing tranquility and serenity of the mind.
3. Boosts stress-relieving Endorphins
Many experts found that regular exercise, which includes walking naturally, increases endorphin levels in the brain that can alleviate stress, relieve pain, and promote relaxation. The higher the level of your endorphins, the greater your sense of well-being is, and the better your mood. So it's not surprising that walking can make you feel so good.
4. Fights fatigue and boosts energy
Are you feeling tired? Taking a walk is a better option than a nap or coffee in boosting your energy and fighting fatigue. A study conducted in the year 2008 showed that individuals with a sedentary lifestyle experienced an energy boost of 20 % and fatigue reduction of 65 % after they followed exercise programs focused on walking. The result also applies to people suffering from chronic health conditions related to fatigue, like cancer and heart disease.
5. Walking in a group offers social support
Have your daily walk in a group for the added stress-relieving benefits of interacting with others and establishing a strong social relationship, which eases isolation. Social support from people around you has been shown to improve your ability to manage stress and handle life's challenges. Social bonding has also been found to decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol and lower blood pressure. Start walking with your friends and neighbors to release the tensions of life.
Walking is a simple, low-impact workout that almost anyone can do regardless of fitness levels. With continuous practice, it leads us to live a happy and fulfilling life. It maybe even your first step to escape stress, give it a try. The next time you're emotionally exhausted, put on comfortable shoes, and go for a stroll. It works like a charm.
