Why walk? When we can longboard, bike, skate or just take the car? Here you will learn why we should still walk more often :)
We put our feet in fancy sneakers on the train or in the car. We put them in high hooks under the desk in the office. And in summer, we paint our flip-flop toenails before getting on our bikes.
As a means of transportation, feet have somehow become somewhat "old fashioned". Instead, we prefer to rush through our daily lives in motorized vehicles. And at the end of the day, to the gym. In order to "get some exercise".
Yet there are so many good reasons to walk more often. For this reason, here is a small - and totally justified - homage to our feet. And their very original function: namely to carry our tired body through this world.
13 good reasons why you should walk more often
1. walking makes a crisp buttocks
Walking activates the muscles of your calves and thighs. This is not surprising at first. But we need many more muscle groups. Did you know that the buttocks and abdominal muscles are also used?
By the way, the muscles are activated even more when going uphill. So: Lace up the hiking boots! Don't you have a hill available right now? Then just take the stairs instead of the elevator in the future. :)
2. the immune system is strengthened
Our body loves fresh air and light exercise. It boosts our defenses. And makes us less susceptible to illness. And it's true: there's no such thing as bad weather. So get outside. With rubber boots if need be.
3. you become more creative
You've been stuck in front of the project for hours. Or you have to write a paper, but you can't get a sentence down on your paper. Get outside! If you go outside and get some fresh air, you'll be more productive all by yourself.
The reason is that we can simply let go of things that we have become attached to. And this also loosens our blockages. If you air out your brain, you'll be more creative afterwards. Want to bet? :)
4. while walking you can meditate and ground yourself
Sometimes we just lack a slow down from everyday life. Walking meditations are great ways to find peace. It's not about the destination but about the conscious awareness of the individual steps. Breathe deeply. The focus is on the now. We recommend ground-level paths in the park or in nature for this.
5. you become more independent
Your day is organized according to the departure times of the train? Your weekend trips according to the prices at the gas pump? And your daily activities according to the parking situation in the city center?
Totally annoying, right? Forget ticket prices, rush hour on public transport and traffic jams on the way to the weekend. Run. Walk. Use your feet. You always have them with you. And using them is completely free. Enjoy the independence.
6. the cardiovascular system is strengthened
It doesn't always have to be a half marathon. Moderate exercise also helps your body get fit and healthy. The light activity helps especially with heart problems or to lower high blood pressure.
7. walking helps to lose weight
You really want to lose weight, but you hate to go jogging? Or go to the gym? No problem. Because walking also burns calories. After one hour even up to 200 calories.
And now imagine that you walk a longer distance every day. This way you can burn 1500 calories per week almost by the way. If that's not enough action for you, try this: Nordic Walking Technique: Walk correctly with our guide.
8. the stress level is reduced
Unlike in the gym, the cortisol level remains at a low level during the walk. Especially if everyday life was stressful, 30 minutes of quiet walking is a better decision than lifting weights.
9. awaken the explorer in you
How many things do we not even notice when we're sitting in the car? Or travel the same route on the bus every day? On foot, we can vary our routes. We are slower and thus much more attentive to our surroundings.
Maybe there's a wonderful little café around the corner? Or a pretty boutique? A small elevation that offers a fantastic view over the city? Find out :)
10. walking makes happy
According to the Journal of Psychiatric Research, regular walking significantly improves mental state. Anyone who walks at least 30 minutes 5 times a week can improve their basic mood enormously. And don't give negative thoughts a chance.
11. walking keeps fresh, young and crisp
A physically active lifestyle is the best fountain of youth. Exercise makes the lungs and heart work better. We breathe more deeply. This supplies the brain with more oxygen. The cells can work better.
Logical consequence: We gain up to 7 years more life time. Get dementia or Alzheimer's later. And simply look fresher. A great reason to already make regular walks a routine.
12. time for you
Some lie down in the warm bathtub. Others cook, sew or do puzzles. But walking can also be a great way to relax and leave everyday life behind.
13. walking helps to switch off
Sometimes it's just like that. You need a break from everyday life. You need to come down. Distract yourself. What's better than a pack of chocolate? And a stupid TV program to keep you entertained?
You guessed it! A long walk in the fresh air. That way you can let go of negative thoughts. Relax. Take in fresh air and recharge your batteries. Works wonders!
Our conclusion:
We will also add walking back into our daily routine. Because the effects on the body and mind are simply wonderful. And a great balance to sweaty sports programs and many office hours.
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