Why Walking In Autumn Can Make You Feel Healthier & Happier

October 22, 2018

walking

Let’s talk about Autumn. And the number one thing that most people stop doing when this time of year comes round – getting outdoors.

While other states have summer to spend a lot of time outside, for us, it starts in Autumn.  It is the perfect time to enjoy the fresh air (in fact, it comes with a whole lot of health benefits too!)…

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

Most of us put our walking shoes to the back of the closet the minute summer temps start to rise above triple digits,  but what if I told you that taking a gentle stroll in the Autumn can have a great impact on your health, and can even 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 colorful Autumn scenery
  • Huge panoramas under bright blue skies
  • Breathtaking desert views
  • Seasonal wildlife
  • Less crowded walking routes
  • Stunning misty mornings and golden sunsets
  • Kicking up the leaves

More tempted now?

There are many reasons why I 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 (like you do with most sports), and it’s the foundation for good health.

So, with that said, let’s take a look at some of the ways walking enhances our life…

It Blows Your Stress Away

What do I do when I need to get away from a stressful day? I go for a walk! Preferably surrounded by nature.

For me, it’s the parks or hiking trails. For others, it might be the 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 walked more than a quarter of a mile a day have 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 up legs, butt, and abs – just be sure to be aware of your posture that you’re not slouching over, and 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 they don’t seize up, and your body strong – 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 get fitter, and keeps you from feeling tired less quickly.

If you walk briskly for just 30 minutes, you can 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 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 Autumn and explore more with walking.

Keep active all year round, so by the time the warmer months come round, you can keep active for longer without risking any injuries, or slight discomfort dampening your day.

Nick Hunter, PT, DPT
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