Walk Your Way to Better Health

Walking is one of the best exercises for your overall health. Walking is good for your heart as well as your lungs. It's been proven to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Walking is also a way to reduce body fat, lose weight and help keep your body more limber. Walking is an especially good exercise for seniors who are otherwise in good health as it can help with balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls.

And, let's not forget the mental health benefits. Just being out in nature, breathing the air, getting sunshine on your face and keeping moving is a way to enhance your overall well being. The benefits of walking have been proven to sharpen memory and improve judgement. (Must be all that oxygen flowing to the brain!) If you're stuck behind a desk all day, try taking a walk as a break to clear your head and get your creative juices flowing.

If your physical condition permits, consider adding a walk to your daily routine. And, if you're just starting out, make sure to check with your doctor first, then get some good sneakers, a comfortable outfit and start by putting one foot in front of the other. Another benefit! You don't need any fancy equipment to take advantage of this low impact exercise. Walking might be the best way to start on the road to health and longevity.

Is walking part of your overall living healthier plan?