Walk Talk Action Founder, Teri Elder, talks to Radio Stoke’s Susan Hanks about the benefits of walking and the great outdoors.
It’s as simple as putting one foot in front of the other, but there are a multitude of benefits to walking. And they come both physically and mentally.
Teri Elder, discusses the many benefits of walking in a short interview for Radio Stoke. And tells us how Walk Talk Action can help people get back to a better state of mind.
Listen to the interview
The physical health benefits of walking
Walking is a low-impact form of exercise that can help improve cardiovascular health and is one of the easiest ways to become more active. It also helps increase muscle strength and endurance, balance and coordination.
Moreover, walking and being around nature can lead to a better night’s sleep. Exposure to natural light during the day can help to regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, which can improve sleep quality.
Going for a walk – long or short – can help prevent weight gain and fatigue and lessens the risk of chronic disease.
The physical health benefits of walking checklist
The mental health benefits of walking
Walking helps reduce stress and anxiety levels. Studies have shown that spending time around nature can help to lower cortisol levels (cortisol is the hormone associated with stress).
Walking and being surrounded nature is thought to have a restorative effect on the brain, which can lead to improved mood. This, in turn helps reduce symptoms of depression.
Furthermore, being among nature helps boost creativity and problem-solving skills. Studies have shown that exposure to natural environments can improve cognitive function.
The mental health benefits of walking checklist
Walking has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia and prevent disability in old age.
Motivation for walking
Here are some tips to motivate you to go outside and start walking – using the Walk Talk Action ethos…
When you’re out for a walk, try and forget about things you’re worried about and focus on your surroundings. Be mindful of your senses.
Take deep breaths and notice the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Try to let go of any thoughts or worries that arise and focus on the present moment.
You can also try a mindfulness exercises – such as counting your breaths or doing a body scan – to help you stay focused.
Walking with Walk Talk Action
Walk Talk Action is a unique and innovative initiative that promotes physical activity, mental health, and social connections. We do this by combining walking, talking, and taking action to support social causes.
Here are some of the benefits of getting involved with Walk Talk Action:
Do you need our help?
To find out more about how Walk Talk Action can help, you can email Teri at info@walktalkaction.co.uk Or, if you’d like to join one of our sessions, you can complete our application form.