Looking for an excuse to get out of the house and embrace the fresh spring air this month? Well March 30th sees the annual ‘take a walk in the park’ day. The unofficial holiday promotes fitness and rejuvenation, as it encourages people of all ages to take time out of their day to go for a scenic stroll, hopefully boosting mood and energy in a therapeutic way.
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as embracing nature in the spring – everything’s beginning to bloom, the grass is getting greener and the air is ever so fresh. Therefore, taking a walk is the best way to embrace nature as it’s blooming – and it’s good for you!
Did you know – Walking in sunlight and fresh air have amazing effects on the body including…
- Greater energy
Inhaling fresh air helps clear your lungs and increase oxygen flow to your muscles and brain, resulting in a greater rush of energy in the body. A brisk walk can even wake up stiff joints and ease muscle tension to help you feel less sluggish.
- Reduced stress and depression
Sunlight is thought to help ward off depression and stress because the “happy” chemical serotonin is higher in the brain during the time of year when days are longer.
- It tones your legs, bum, tum – and even arms!
A good walk can help strengthen and shape your legs, providing great definition for your calves, quads and lifting your glutes. If you pay attention to your posture, you can also tone your waist and abs, too. Swinging your arms will not only speed you up, but also tone your arms, shoulders and upper back – bye bye, bingo wings!
- Better sleep
Exposing yourself to daylight for at least 15 minutes at the same time every day helps your body suppress melatonin, the chemical most likely to give us that midday nap feeling. So taking a short walk outside every day could be beneficial and give you more daylight hours to enjoy more things.
So today, if you take the step outside and find yourself enjoying your stroll, doing it more often could be very beneficial to your health and life. Fresh air can improve cognitive function and release endorphins, giving us that all around happy buzz that can brighten our day.
If you’re planning a walk alone, why not play some relaxing or uplifting music to make your day more pleasant, or take some company – a friend or a partner – so you can share the time together, and even have a picnic!
Whether you take a brisk walk or a soothing stroll – it’s entirely up to you! Taking a small walk outside today could be the first step in really improving your mood and general well-being.
