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Don’t Sleep on Walking to Improve your Health

It’s one of the easiest things you can do

By Nicholas McKennaPublished 2 years ago 4 min read
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Photo by Vladimir Kudinov: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-holding-woman-while-walking-on-sidewalk-36367/

Growing up I don’t know how many times I was told to sit still. Teachers would say that it was a bad habit and I had to fix it.

Today, I walk all the time as a way to keep my mind clutter free.

It’s like going through your emails throughout the day. the number 179 next to your inbox may cause you some anxiety and cleaning it out is how you feel better.

For me, walking is how I clean out my mental inbox.

There are some health benefits that go along with moving more too. Below you will find ways to keep moving during your day and why you should.

Standing still isn’t good, It’s the same as sitting

We were designed to move. I talk about this too much but that’s because I see a lot of people doing nothing.

Even when you’re waiting in line at the grocery store you can sway side to side with the music the store is playing.

Dancing is a great way to keeping moving. It’s fun and if you are on a date, it can be the thing that impresses who you’re dancing with.

Others like to find excuses to move around. When you’re in a meeting, you can go to the bathroom or shut the door. Be the person handing out products of papers (if your company still uses paper). It keeps you moving and makes you look good to your boss.

Every little bit helps. It may look weird to those around you, but you are not doing it for their benefit.

It’s fun to keep moving. Find your way to make it more fun and it can make your day a little more entertaining.

Walk every day

Even if it’s for a minute, find somewhere to walk to.

This is a great way to clear your mind and if you don’t have to clear your mind, walking helps you think clearer.

You don’t need to set aside a huge amount of time for this. Start with a minute and if you feel like you want a longer walk keep going.

Some people say they do their best thinking in the shower, but I feel like getting myself moving is the best way to get my mind moving.

Walking is great for a few reasons. Most don’t get enough exercise and walking in one way to improve your heart health.

According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death in America. The pandemic may be taking its toll on us but walking can help stomp out a bigger threat.

After surviving the pandemic, there’re those who need to improve their mental health also. Walking will help you with this too.

Talk while you walk

It’s not crazy if it’s helpful, right?

It may look insane if you’re talking to yourself but sometimes you need expert advice. These days you can put your headphones on, and people will think you’re on the phone.

When people do call you, walk and talk to get some extra steps in. A study found that walking boosted creativity 60%.

Not only are you getting a little healthier but you’re also problem solving at the same time!

People need something to do at all times these days. Walking is no different. When I go to the gym, I use the treadmill for about 40 minutes. To keep myself entertained, I listen to music or watch Netflix.

Walk while you talk out what’s bothering you. It can help in more ways than one. Some may call this pacing but if it helps, what’s the big deal?

IT’s all about finding the things that make you better. For some, talking while you walk around is one of those things.

Final Thoughts

It seems so simple, doesn’t it? Just keep moving and your health will improve dramatically.

Why most of us are staying in on the couch or in bed more is a mystery to me. The pandemic had something to do with because we were not allowed to go out for a time and that instilled bad habits in some of us.

It might be time to break those bad habits and create some new ones. Start by walking more and you will be on your way to a healthier life.

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About the Creator

Nicholas McKenna

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