By far the simplest and best anti-stress exercise in the world!
I often see people complaining about their little aches and pains, the fact that they don't feel in shape... That they don't have the time to go to the gym or the money to buy workout equipment. They're looking for a stress-reliever.
But I've got some news for you! There's no excuse now for probably the oldest form of exercise known to man... Walking!
You don't have to be an athlete or in great shape to do this exercise! You just need to know how to put one foot in front of the other! «Yes, but walking doesn't do much for my body Pat» That's where you're wrong! Walking is the unloved exercise... a bit like the potato that's overlooked in vegetables when in reality it's packed with nutrients and is better for us than we think.
Regular walking has a direct effect on our bodies, and is a powerful stress-reliever!
To start with, you lose 175 calories/hour walking at around 3 km/hour. In comparison, playing 1 hour of volleyball burns almost the same amount, jogging 500 calories, cycling 350 and sitting at your computer around 70... But the real magic of walking is that it acts on several biological systems.
How?
- reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke;
- lowering blood pressure;
- lowering blood cholesterol levels;
- by increasing bone density,
- alleviating the negative consequences of osteoarthritis;
- by relieving back pain.
- And it has a powerful effect on stress and anxiety...
Let me draw your attention to the last element. Stress and anxiety. A number of studies have shown that sustained or brisk walking increases levels of endorphin and serotonin, 2 happiness hormones.
After a few days of daily walking, your motor reflexes will develop, your cardiovascular and cardiorespiratory system will improve, your sleep will be deeper and therefore more restorative, and your mental health will be all the better for it!
It's the simplest exercise, the least expensive and probably the least likely to cause injury. Excellent for people of all ages. You can do it as a family, with friends or on your own while listening to your favorite music.
Go at your own pace to start with, and after a few days slowly increase the pace to finish with a more sustained walk. It's just a question of increasing your breathing a little!
And if you can take just half an hour's walk in a forest or wooded area, the effects on stress and anxiety are more markedly reduced.
So no more excuses! Put on your shoes, hydrate well and off you go! Go for a walk! You'll thank me later!
For other organic anti-stress solutions : HYPERBARICS AND STRESS