Spring is upon us and with the weather getting warmer, many of us are starting to spend more time outdoors. Planning has begun for our yearly trips to the beach and we want to lose those extra pounds that were gained during the fall and winter months. Maybe we just want to get in better shape for the summer. We have finally “sprung forward” and daylight hours are longer, giving us more time after work to get out and go for an evening walk. Taking a walk after work is a great time to relieve some of the stress that you may have built up during the day. With the return of nicer weather, the indoor treadmill seems to be a bit boring, so why not change it up and get out and experience the beauty that nature has to offer. All you need is a good pair of sneakers and you’re all set! Walking can be the exercise of choice because it is free and almost anyone can do it. Walking as well as other forms of physical activity do more than improve fitness, they also can improve cardiac health, relieve depression, improve mood and circulation. Walking helps keep blood glucose, blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels in check while lowering the risk for a heart attack or stroke. Do not let lack of time keep you from being active. It is recommended that most adults get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily which is only a small percentage of your day. So this Spring, get off of that couch and let’s stop making excuses and start making promises…… Promises to take charge of your health.
-Camesha Grant, Health Educator, MEd, CHES