Why Walking in Autumn Can Make You Feel Happy

October 28, 2019

walking

Let’s talk about fall. Specifically, the number one thing that most people stop doing around this time of year- getting outdoors.

While other states have the summer to spend lots of time outside, for us, our outdoor ventures begin in the fall. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the fresh air. In fact, it even comes with a plethora of health benefits too!

Bright blue skies, crisp cool air, and skies painted in bright reds, oranges, and yellows;- how could you not be drawn to spending more time outside, making the most of the tranquil Arizona scenery?

Many of us put our walking shoes in the back of the closet the minute summer temps begin to rise above triple digits and then forget to take them back out! But, what if we told you that taking a gentle stroll in Autumn can have a great impact on your health, lift your mood and combat the “summer blues”, despite the dark nights drawing in?

Just Take a Look at Some of These Autumn Walking Plus-points:

  • Gorgeous views amid the colorful autumn scenery.
  • Huge panoramas under the bright blue sky.
  • Breathtaking desert views.
  • Seasonal wildlife.
  • Less crowded walking routes.
  • Stunning misty mornings and golden sunsets.

More tempted now?

As you can see, there are many reasons to love walking. You don’t have to move at a fast pace like running, and it’s highly unlikely to cause any injuries that keep you from doing what you love.

Everyone can walk!

Also, you don’t need any equipment (unlike with most sports) and it’s the foundation for good health.

So with that being said, let’s take a look at some of the ways walking enhances our health.

It Blows Your Stress Away

What do you do when you need to get away from a stressful day? Go for a walk! Preferably surrounded by nature. Places like parks or hiking trails. Or possibly woods or walking paths.

Sure enough, going for a walk anywhere in a natural setting is going to reduce your stress levels.

Lowers Your Risk Of Alzheimer’s

Believe it or not, walking can actually be good for your mind and overall mental health. According to recent studies, people in their 60’s, 70’s, the ’80s, and 90’s who walk more than a quarter of a mile a day had half the incidence of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

It Tones You Up!

It might seem pretty obvious that exercise can help you build and tone your muscles. But, this especially holds true when it comes to walking.

Walking helps tone your legs, butt, and abs- but be aware of your posture, making sure you’re not slouching over, and that your head is held up high.

Keeps You Moving No Matter What Age

Walking (no matter what age you are) can help you stay mobile and independent even in your 70’s and beyond! It keeps your joints moving so that they don’t seize up reducing the likelihood that you’ll be affected later on in life with something like knee and hip pain.

Burns Calories

And way more than you think! Brisk walking raises your heart rate, helps you stay fit, and keeps you from feeling tired less quickly.

Walking briskly for 30 minutes can allow you to burn up to 150 calories- which is equal to the number you’d burn playing doubles tennis for the same length of time! And it’s more than half the number of calories in the average calories in the average chocolate bar.

Although the exact number you burn depends on your body weight, age, and fitness, there’s no denying that walking more is a very good thing.

So there you have it, 5 reasons why you should keep active this fall and explore more with walking.

Keep active all year round, so by the time the warmer months roll around, you will have stayed active for longer and reduce your risk of injuries!

Nick Hunter, PT, DPT
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