What Are the 5 Benefits of Walking Daily?

Dr.Navneet Gill, 2 mins read

We all know walking is good. Still, how many of us take it seriously? A very few, right?

In our busy schedules, we rarely walk and spend most time sitting in an office chair or vehicle. This is a real challenge, as walking offers innumerable health benefits to us. 

We are sure that after reading this guide, you will surely get more motivated to walk and make it a routine affair. 

• Good for Heart Health

A brisk walk of 30 minutes regularly can significantly benefit your heart. It strengthens your heart, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, and improves circulation. Additionally, walking helps lower blood pressure, reduces bad cholesterol, and improves good cholesterol. 

• Helps You Cut Down Excess Weight 

Walking on a regular basis is an easy and sustainable way to be in good shape without any intense workout. Over time, consistent walking can help you achieve improved and better body composition. 

This can also help in reducing belly fat - when combined with mindful eating and healthy lifestyle activities. Besides, staying active and walking keeps your joints flexible and strengthens muscles in your hips, legs, and core.

• Addresses Stress and Anxiety 

Consider a morning or evening walk in a park with lush greenery or trees. A calming nature or ecosystem soothes our nervous system and reduces stress hormone (cortisol). It allows you to slow down your mind, focus on your breathing, distract your mind from stress, and create a space for deep reflection. 

• Boosts Mood and Mental Clarity

Walking at your own pace with or without listening to calming music can trigger the release of endorphins and serotonin (feel-good) hormones. When you start enjoying this activity, it gradually improves your brain functioning, creativity, memory, and cognitive function. 

• Improves Sleep Quality 

Regular walking helps lower stress and regulate cardiac rhythm, which ultimately contributes to healthy sleep. Brisk walking for half an hour can make you sweat and tire you in a healthy way, which is good to help you fall asleep faster.

Regular walking doesn’t mean that you have to get special time for this. You can do this easily without hampering your routine. How? Take the stairs instead of the lift. For shorter distances, walk instead of taking a vehicle. 

While working in the office, try to walk for a few minutes within the office every hour. Remember, walking doesn’t mean a dedicated time and a long distance walk. Even short, frequent walking can do magic for you.