Greetings!

What is up with walking? Is it the latest exercise trend or a throwback to our ancestral roots? I once heard a man say he was walking 8 miles per day! Of course, he was retired and had plenty of time.

I’m a runner, but I have been walking a lot lately to ensure Oliver, the doggo, doesn’t get too overweight. Thanks to the “awesome” Texas heat, I find mornings are best. Watching a beautiful sunrise fills the soul with clarity and gratitude.

Walking is good medicine for a healthy body, mind, and soul. Mix in gratitude and receive a healthy dose of peace and well-being. Truth.

For my healthcare professionals, here are a few benefits of walking:

• Burns calories
• Strengthens muscles and bones
• Improves heart health
• Improves mood
• Increases energy levels
• Increases range of motion

And the most important thing — doggies love it!

Walking is not just a simple, leisurely activity; it’s a powerful tool for longevity. According to research, walking for just 11 minutes daily can extend your lifespan by two years. Swapping an hour of sitting with walking can slash your risk of early death by about 14%, potentially adding years to your life. Walking gets your blood pumping, reduces stress, and is as effective as running in protecting your heart. A daily stroll can also help you maintain a healthy weight by burning calories and reducing harmful belly fat.

Walking is CHEAP, and no special outfits are required!

I challenge you to take a walk this month, even if you wait until after the big Thanksgiving meal. Is walking trendy or a part of your DNA? You tell me!

Plus, the mental health benefits of spending time outdoors can’t be overstated. Being in nature reduces stress and improves mood. Just 10 to 30 minutes in a natural setting can decrease anxiety and enhance feelings of calm. It’s a chance to ground, relax, and reconnect with yourself and the natural world. Finding a small patch of green or simply sitting in a park can be restorative, even if you don’t have loads of time or access to pristine nature spots.

For those with limited mobility, don’t let that deter you from reaping the benefits of exercise. You don’t need full mobility to improve your health and well-being. You can do numerous exercises, even from a chair, that can boost your mood, relieve stress, and enhance your overall outlook on life. Whether it’s chair aerobics, strength training with resistance bands, or flexibility exercises like yoga, there are accessible options to keep active and healthy.

Embrace walking and outdoor activities as part of your lifestyle, regardless of physical limitations. Whether you’re strolling with your pup, exploring a local park, or simply taking a mindful moment in nature, these activities can enrich your life in more ways than one.

Health and happiness to you!

Susan