The Benefits of Going on Daily Walks
Walking is, without question, the most common form of exercise. Whether you live in a city and walking is your primary form of transportation or you go on daily walks in your neighborhood, it’s basically unavoidable. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, we started viewing daily walks in a new light. What was once a form of exercise became our form of therapy as we were unable to go in public spaces. More recently, Hot Girl Walks became popular on TikTok, which are long walks that are dedicated to improving mental health and reaching a specific step count. You may be wondering – aside from the obvious physical benefits of reaching a specific step count, what else can long daily walks offer? Let’s talk about it.
Mental Benefits
Oftentimes, the mental benefits of long, daily walks are overlooked. However, those who rely on them to maintain positive attitudes and reduce anxiety are well aware of their potential. Going on daily walks can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels by promoting the release of endorphins, also known as “feel-good” hormones.
Long walks are also viewed as a form of meditation in motion, as they allow us to clear our minds and focus on the present moment. For those who work desk jobs or anyone who is inside all day, daily walks can also give us an opportunity to get into nature and boost our moods. Being in nature can decrease feelings of anger and anxiety levels.
Physical Benefits
It’s easy to look past the physical benefits of going on daily walks. Since we are doing it so frequently we often forget that walking is considered exercise. Regular daily walks strengthen the cardiovascular system, improving heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease and lowering blood pressure. Walking also boosts metabolism, helping to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, walking is an excellent form of low-impact exercise, making it an activity that can be enjoyed by most.
Getting the Most Out of Your Daily Walks
If you are looking to get more out of your daily walks, we’re here to help. Although intentionally increasing your step count is an excellent decision to make for your overall health, it can bring many additional benefits as well. Implementing certain practices can help you make your walks more intentional, ultimately improving the mental and physical effects of them.
If you’re anything like us – you may use walks as a form of therapy – a time to blast your favorite music and forget about the things that are causing you stress. Although these practices are useful at certain times, this can be a form of dissociation – which is a mild detachment from our current surroundings. Listening to music loudly can prevent you from connecting with your surroundings and may prevent you from absorbing the mental benefits of walking.
Introducing a new purpose to your walks can help you explore new benefits. How often have you been on a walk and found yourself replaying a conversation you had weeks ago with a friend? Or fixating on a work assignment that has had you stressed? Practicing more mindful walking can help you avoid these thoughts during your daily walks.
Mindful walking is a popular practice that has become a form of therapy for many individuals. Before you begin your walk, set an intention for yourself – what are you trying to achieve through this walk (reduce stress, forgiveness, etc.)? Once you have set your intention, it’s time to begin. As you walk, look at your surroundings. Consider how the trees shake, how fast the clouds move, and the sensation of the ground. The goal of this practice is to introduce consciousness to your walks while reducing stress. If you struggle to walk mindfully, you can try using a “walking meditation” on a streaming platform or YouTube to have someone guide you throughout.
Regardless of the lengths of your walks, you will want to ensure you are properly fueled. Consuming complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can provide a steady release of energy throughout the walk. Additionally, hydrating before is essential to ensure that your body functions optimally by regulating temperature, lubricating joints, and transporting nutrients to cells.
If you’re anything like us, it’s likely that you will want a coffee before your walk as an energy boost. If you are looking to get more from your coffee, consider Zenbean’s Infrared Brew enriched with nootropic ingredients. Nootropic ingredients are cognitive boosting adaptogens that improve focus, memory, and mood. These benefits can fuel your walk and help your mental clarity and alertness. The combination of these cognitive-enhancing properties alongside the physical benefits of walking can lead to a more productive and fulfilling therapeutic experience.
If you are not a typical coffee drinker, there are alternatives. If you would prefer to have protein before your daily walk, we have a solution for that too. Zenbodi Fuel is a delicious vanilla protein powder optimized to fuel your daily walks. Zenbodi Fuel is a fusion of vital vitamins, minerals, muscle-nourishing whey proteins, and an extra kick of MCT oil.
Going for walks in the same environment every day can become routine and prevent you from getting the most out of your daily walks. Finding new environments for your walks can spark inspiration and boost your mood.
Bringing a friend on your walks is another excellent way to change it up. One study found that exercising with groups can contribute to balanced health and help individuals feel more socially connected. Additionally, chatting and walking is an excellent way to pass the time on walks where you’re hoping to pass the time. Although mindful walking is an important practice, sometimes you just want a quick and fun workout.
Embrace the Benefits of Daily Walks for Your Overall Wellness
If you are looking to upgrade your walking routine, consider implementing these three Zenbodi-approved elements. If you are already setting aside time to walk each day, you might as well optimize it.
Most importantly, take this time for yourself and use it for what you need at the moment. Walking offers a plethora of benefits for your physical and mental health. Level up your daily walks with Zenbodi’s premier products.
