Just as water is essential for life, movement is critical to maintaining a healthy mind and body. National Walking Day is a celebration of basic movement. Whether you break a sweat or not, walking has benefits beyond hitting goals on your pedometer.
Improve Circulation: Activity as simple as walking can improve your circulation. Walking also can decrease pain for those with peripheral artery disease.
Cholesterol Reduction: Exercise stimulates enzymes that transfer LDL (the bad boy cholesterol) from the blood to the liver. From there, the cholesterol is converted into bile or excreted. So increased movement yields more LDL that your body expels.
Destress: A walk is also an amazing remedy to mental clutter. If there is a choice of lunch in the break room or a stroll, stretching your legs an focusing on breathing may be the better remedy. Exercise increases concentrations of norepinephrine, a chemical that can moderate the brain’s response to stress.
If you haven't started lacing your shoes yet, click any of the above links for further inspiration to make your move and step out.