So we’re up to #5 in our series of simple things we can do to live a healthier life. If you’re just joining us and want to review:
#1 – Drink Water
#2 – Exercise
#3 – Sleep
#4 – Eat Real Food (and Less Sugar)
I saved #5 for this (hopefully!) ideal spring season. Your goal this month is to
get outside and enjoy some leisurely walks.
Stress-Free Strolling
Here’s my very basic watered-down version of the explanation:
Walking at a relaxing, leisurely pace decreases cortisol – a stress hormone which typically causes your body to retain fat.
Aim for some stress-lessening walking every day if possible. Maintain a slow, relaxed pace (3.5 mph or less) where you are able to carry on conversations easily. 30-60 minutes is ideal, but any amount is better than nothing!
Remember that this is not intended to be your cardio workout – that should come from some HIIT (high-intensity interval training) for the biggest benefits. The hope here is to decrease the stress hormones in your body that cause you to hold on to fat.
If possible, get outside. Some studies show that these benefits are magnified when nature is involved.
Less cortisol equals more likelihood of fat loss.
Relax
While you’re at it, you might want to take a little relaxation audio with you. Even though this is meant for stillness, just listening to the calming voice while you walk should help decrease your stress levels as well.
And use this time to talk – and listen! – to God’s voice whispering in your ear. He wants us to connect with Him. While you’re out for a leisurely walk is the perfect opportunity!
Run
Or, perhaps your walks will be part of your cool-down following a run. If you’ve ever thought about running a 5K, now’s the perfect time! Race calendars are filling up fast with events every weekend.
I know 5K training plans are available everywhere. But I’d love to walk you through 6 weeks of training, hold you accountable, and answer every question you have about road races. (It’s totally free – it’s just something I enjoy doing!)
If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, (or you know someone who might like this idea, have them) sign up for the 5K training plan and accountability group here.
So – simple step this month: Leisurely (outdoor?) walks! It’s the perfect time of year to get this habit started off right! Lessen your stress with some simple strolling and see if it doesn’t improve your health from the inside out!
Is walking part of your weekly routine? If so, how often? How long? If not, when could you incorporate it this week?
Everyday Faith + Fitness 