Ever look at one of those moms and wonder how she keeps it all together? I’m talking mascara on just for the morning drop off-line and wearing what can only be her pre-baby jeans?
Yeah. Us too. But here’s what we know for sure -- no one has it completely together. No one. Because mommin' is hard and mommin’ can be lonely and we all need to prioritize ourselves at least a little bit.
So we’re walking.
Why? Because walking takes no special gear, no special place, no special time, and the health benefits are literally amazing. Here are nine of our favorite reasons:
1. Walking can improve your mood
Many studies have shown a link between walking for exercise and improved mood and lower stress. Walking in nature can amplify these benefits.
2. Walking can reduce your blood pressure
A study in Korea showed decreased blood pressure when subjects walked 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
3. Walking will help you lose weight
Walking burns more calories, but it can also help offset genetic tendencies towards obesity. According to a Harvard study, one hour of walking a day can reduce these influences by half.
4. Walking can help fight cancer
Another Harvard study showed that women who walked just 1 to 3 hours per week reduced their risk of death from breast and uterine cancers by 19 percent.
5. Walking is good for your bones
A Nurse’s Health study showed that women who walk 4 hours or more a week saw a 40% reduction in hip fractures.
6. Walking is good for your heart
Walking 30 minutes a day at a medium pace can reduce a woman’s risk of heart disease by 40%, per a Harvard study.
7. Walking can help you sleep better
Walking outdoors, especially in the morning, can help your body get in tune with our natural daily rhythms. The activity and daylight can set your internal clock and help you fall asleep faster and sleep better that night.
8. Walking helps your brain
Walking results in a 50 percent reduction in the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, according to research from Rush University.
9. Walking helps you solve problems
Walking calms your nerves and your brain, allowing you to think more creatively and solve problems. Since walking occupies some of your brain, it productively distracts the jumpy part, while allowing the creative part to do its thing. Stuck on a problem? Go for a walk.
You might never be the mom who puts mascara on before dropping the kids off at school, but taking the time for yourself every day for a walk will soon have other moms asking themselves: What is she doing? She looks so happy and healthy!
Now go for a walk.
Looking for someone to walk with? Join the 99 Walks September challenge and earn the necklace pictured below for walking 33 miles. You’ll be healthier, happier, and glad you did! Learn more at 99walks.fit.
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