Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Rediscover the Pleasure and Value of Walking

Rediscover the Pleasure and Value of Walking

By Edie George

An old fashioned walk is regaining popularity in this time of busy and sometimes stressful lifestyles many people lead. It is the easiest form of exercise since everyone knows how to do it. You can do it anytime, anywhere, in any scenario. Walking with friends at work or in the neighborhood is a pleasure. If you can not talk as you walk, chances are the pace is too fast. Slow down and work on increasing the tempo over time. Choose directions that take you into neighborhoods with lovely gardens to look at. If there are parks nearby, head on over there to see the shrubs and flowers and trees, maybe do a little bird watching.

Some cities have walking clubs that meet on a weekly basis and take a tour of places of interest in the area. They choose a different direction each time and find treasures in the city that you might have driven right by for years and never noticed. This is a wonderfully easy and accessible and healthy way to socialize casually, meeting new people and seeing new sights. If you belong to a group of any kind, suggest the formation of a walking group of your own, you will probably find others who will be enthusiastic and you are on your way.

No matter your age or physical condition walking will benefit you in many ways. Of course, you might want to consult your physician before embarking on a full schedule of regular walking. Walking has been shown to improve circulation and reduce stress which in turn improves blood pressure and strengthens your cardiovascular system. Another benefit from walking can be a better nights sleep for those who sometimes experience insomnia.

One good thing about developing a walking hobby is that it takes no fancy equipment. A good pair of cross training shoes, with proper arch support and a slight lift in the heel will make your feet happy. If you like to walk on wooded trails, look for a light hiking boot that will give support to your ankles as well. Walking shorts in warm weather and long pants in cooler climate along with several layers of light tank tops and shirts will keep you comfortable and can be removed as you become warmed up.

Old fashioned as it might be, walking with a friend or loved one in the evening, walking the dog or strolling along communing with nature is a very pleasant and valuable activity to include in your life for as long as you live.

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