Contents

• Health benefits
• Benefits for the mind

When we feel the need to incorporate more physical activity into our lives, especially as the weather gets warmer, the days get longer, and the sunnier, the first things that come to mind are strenuous exercise, running, going to the gym, and group fitness. And it turns out that regular walks in the fresh air are enough if we want to take care of our health, fitness, and mind. Walking is one of the most enjoyable things we can do for ourselves during the day. The healing power of walking is invaluable. This form of activity is ideal for everyone, regardless of age or health condition. Let's see what benefits an ordinary, everyday walk in nature can bring us.

Health benefits

Walking is, firstly, one of the simplest forms of pleasure, and secondly, very pleasant. We can go for a walk alone, with the whole family, or with a friend. Even a leisurely stroll can do wonders for our tired, stressed bodies. During a walk, we supply it with the oxygen it needs, and the blood begins to circulate better, thus distributing nutrients and oxygen more efficiently throughout the body. Walking offers us, among other things:

• Strengthening immunity,
• Sunlight, which increases the production of vitamin D in the body,
• Oxygen supply to the brain and the entire body,
• Improve blood circulation,
• Cleansing the respiratory tract,
• muscle relaxation,
• Acceleration of metabolism and burning of unnecessary fat tissue,
• helps to lower bad cholesterol in the blood,
• Support the maintenance of normal blood sugar levels,
• Improvement of the function of the heart, nervous and respiratory systems,
• positive effect on bone density, thereby reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

Benefits for the mind

Overall physical health isn't the only benefit of regular walks. They also improve brain function and concentration, as well as a general improvement in well-being, including a better mood. A walk in nature:

• increases the release of endorphins and serotonin, the so-called happiness hormones,
• eliminates problems falling asleep,
• improves brain function, memory and concentration, creative thinking and problem solving.
• reduces the risk of dementia,
• helps reduce memory problems in people with Alzheimer's disease.

Regular walking is the simplest and most economical way to reduce the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle. There's no need to buy an expensive gym membership or special equipment and clothing. All you need are comfortable shoes and a tracksuit. Unlike other exercises, walking doesn't put stress on the joints. It's therefore the most accessible form of exercise for everyone, regardless of age. Multi-year studies in France have shown that a daily walk can significantly extend life and improve its quality. Just 20 minutes of walking a day is enough to make us feel significantly better physically and mentally.