We all know that walking outdoors can improve physical health, but did you know that it can work wonders for your mental health too?
With all the stresses of daily life it can be hard to find peace and time to really see the world around you. Studies have shown that spending just a small amount of time outdoors each week can help to lift your mood.
Step outside, breathe in the fresh air and revitalise your spirit. It’s that easy! Walking outside has even been shown to lower rates of anxiety, depression and a negative mood when compared with time spent clocking up miles on an indoor treadmill.
I spoke to the wonderful outdoor experts at Millets who are encouraging more people to get outside and start walking.
They reveal the 5 main benefits below, including the effects it has on your physical and mental health.
Now what are you waiting for, get those walking shoes on at get some fresh air in those lungs of yours!
The 5 main benefits of walking:
- Instant happiness
Step outside, breathe in the fresh air and revitalise your spirit. Walking outside has even been shown to lower rates of anxiety, depression and a negative mood when compared with time spent clocking up miles on an indoor treadmill. It can also boost self-esteem.
- A good heart
Research has revealed that you can reduce your risk for coronary heart disease by about 19% simply by walking for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Your risk may reduce even further if you decide to increase the duration and/or distance of your daily walks.
- Meet new people
The UK is perfect for outdoor exploration. We recommend searching for local walking groups where you’ll find like-minded people to walk with. If you’re a dog owner, there are lots of dog-walking groups to get involved with, some will even let you borrow a pooch for the day!
- Save money
Walking is an ideal way to improve your fitness without spending a fortune on expensive gym memberships or home exercise equipment. We all know that easing money woes is good for mental well-being.
- Live longer
Researchers have discovered that walking at a faster pace could actually extend your life. A recent study showed that walking at a ‘brisk’ or ‘fast’ pace (>4mph) reduces the risk by 24%, rather than an ‘average’ or ‘slow’ pace which can reduce your risk of death from cardiovascular conditions by up to 20%.