If you aren't walking now then don't start with a mile hike. Walk around the block. If you are walking now, think about ways to gradually improve while sitting on the couch. Change slowly! Read last weeks blog to get some hints on that one.
Let's face it: It's really hard to want to keep living well if you don't feel well
Doing and Enjoying Your Walking Transitions
If you aren't walking now then don't start with a mile hike. Walk around the block. If you are walking now, think about ways to gradually improve while sitting on the couch. Pick a couple of them you know you can do and repeat. Change slowly! Read last weeks blog to get some hints on that one.
Walking is one of the key factors in maintaining a long and healthy life. Not only does it help you stay active and energized, but it can also make you age gracefully by slowing down the effects of aging on your body. All you must do is incorporate regular walking into your routine, and you will live a longer and happier life. The minimum is: 20 minutes per day, 3 days per week at a normal gait for you. Inside or outside. (From my Doctor friend who told me this when I asked. He had been practicing for 50 years).
Here are seven reasons why walking increases longevity and encourages graceful aging:
1. It Supports Healthy Cardiovascular Function
Walking is an excellent heart-healthy exercise, which has been shown to be crucial for maintaining a strong heart and lungs. This can help keep your body functioning at its best and prevent the development of diseases like heart disease and stroke.
2. It Increases Muscle Mass and Strength
As you age, your muscle mass naturally starts to decline, which can make activities like walking more difficult. But by doing regular walks, you can counteract this effect and keep your muscles strong and toned your entire life.
3. It Boosts Bone Density
Walking is also crucial for preserving bone density as you get older. By increasing your daily activity levels, you can prevent the development of osteoporosis, characterized by a loss of bone density and an increased risk of fractures. In addition, walking is easy and low impact, making it ideal for people of all ages and abilities.
4. It Improves Balance and Coordination
As you get older, maintaining balance and coordination can become a challenge. But walking regularly keeps your muscles strong and improves your overall balance and coordination. This makes it easier to stay active as you age. Plus, it helps prevent falls or other accidents that can be dangerous for seniors.
5. It Enhances Cognitive Function
Many current studies have also shown that walking can help enhance cognitive function and improve brain health as you age. This means that walking may help ward off dementia and other memory-related conditions as you get older. Hint: You feel better. If you feel better you ARE better. Immediate feedback. Immediate satisfaction.
6. It Promotes Overall Health and Wellness
It can help you stay fit and maintain a healthy weight, reducing your risk of developing chronic illnesses like diabetes or heart disease. Plus, it is also an excellent way to relieve stress, boost your mood, and improve your sleep quality – all of which are vital factors in maintaining good health at any age.
7. It Reduces Bad Stress Levels - and Increases Good Stress Levels
There really is no doubt that walking reduces stress levels and promotes relaxation. But, of course, when you’re stressed out, it affects your mental and physical health, making it harder for you to choose to walk. But regular walks help you manage stress more effectively and improve your overall well-being.
If you want to age gracefully and live a long and healthy life, make walking a regular part of your routine. Whether you go for daily walks around the neighborhood or take up more intense forms of exercise like running or hiking, incorporating regular movement into your life will keep you healthy and vibrant as you get older. I want you to LIVE better, and, selfishly, I want to hear your story about it. You can find me at the website below.
Happy Days Ahead
Joe Grant, MBA
Certified Retirement Coach
Contact me for a Free 45 minute Consultation at https://yourvantagepoints.com