After being cooped up indoors visiting older and less mobile family members this long holiday weekend in West Virginia, we desperately needed a change of scenery.
Griff and Owen were getting antsy and starting to become bulls in the antique china shop that is Nana’s house. Adam and I were feeling sluggish because all we had done since getting to WV was eat. And our nephew, baby Baker, was starting to get vocal about his displeasure of being inside.
“Let’s go for a walk,” Adam suggested. It was a genius suggestion. Yes, I said it. My husband is a genius.
We threw on some shoes and headed for the door. Of course, traveling back and forth between divorced grandparents means Baker’s stroller was not at our current location. Thankfully, the antique wagon that has been sitting beside Nana’s door since I first went home to meet Adam’s family twenty years ago, actually worked.
The sun was starting to set behind the beautiful rolling Appalachian hills, and the weather was finally feeling slightly cool and closer to fall than summer. We weren’t out there for long, but the change of scenery did all of us some good. We got back indoors feeling both energized and lighter.
And that, my friends, is the power of a walk.
Been sitting too long and need to stretch your legs? A walk is the answer. In the middle of an argument and afraid you are going to say something you will regret? A walk is the answer. Recently move to a new town and looking to meet some people? A walk is the answer.
Here are the reasons that a walk is always the answer:
1. Instant Physical Health Boost. At the end of the day, a walk supports heart health by getting your heart rate up, regulates sugar levels to keep your energy steady, boosts your immunity, jumpstarts your metabolism and is low-impact to keep your bones and joints strong.
2. The Ultimate Mental Health Reset. Walking is a total cortisol-killer, meaning it helps you when you’re feeling overwhelmed by the daily grind. Getting outside in the light also resets your natural rhythm so you sleep better at night. Moving your body can also help unlock your brain to spark creativity.
3. Quality Screen-Free Family Time. A walk is the perfect activity for the whole family, regardless of age. It’s distraction free time, away from screens, where you can chat without technology getting in the way. The pups also love being included and joining in on the fun.
4. It’s 100% Free. No gym membership, fancy bike or weights needed. You can go for a walk anywhere and at any time, and all you have to do is get outside.
5. It Connects You With Your Community. It can help you meet new people. There is a much better chance of running into neighbors when you go for a daily walk. Honestly that is how we met all of our neighbors and friends when we first moved to NC during covid.
Next time you find yourself stuck in a funk or overwhelmed by chaos, put on some shoes and head outside. You will be amazed at how much good just ten minutes of moving your body can do!
