We all age and there is no magic potion to prevent it. There is nothing we can do to halt the annual changing of the number over our door but we can however do a lot to lessen the effects of increasing age and improve our quality of life. We can endeavour to keep ourselves healthy in body, mind and spirit. A relatively easy way to do this is to commit to walking at least fifteen minutes every day. A fit, healthy body defies age. If you haven’t been walking regularly maybe now is the time to restart your walking program

The benefits of walking are numerous. Walking regularly lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, type two diabetes, helps you to sleep better and lowers your risk of developing dementia . If you can walk in the fresh air in a non-polluted atmosphere your skin will glow with health, as outdoor exercise will give you a healthy colour. Walking will keep you fit, strengthen muscles, keep joints active and keep body weight under control.

Stress caused by work or family problems can lead to raised blood pressure, heart disease and make us susceptible to many other illnesses. Walking is a great stress reducer. As you walk you forget for a time the pressures of life and you may even see the solution to some problems. Walking before and/or after work for a short time will put you in good frame of mind to start your day and de – stress you at the end to help you cope with your other responsibilities. For ways to walk more at work click here

Putting on extra weight as we grow older is a fact which causes us anxiety and lowers our self esteem. Many people accept it as inevitable – the middle age spread – but this need not be so. By walking every day we can keep our figures fit and trim. Extra weight puts stress on knee joints which will eventually cause pain and aches in your knees.. Walking regularly in conjunction with a calorie controlled diet will keep your body weight under control and help you avoid problems with your knees and back. This help you enjoy unhampered mobility, regardless of your age. Even if you are overweight or obese you can start on a simple walking plan. Research shows that obese walkers should stroll and enjoy the same benefits as brisk walking.If you wish to lose weigh by walking click here

Walking, too, will lift your spirits, give you a more positive outlook on life and energise you. If you are fortunate to be able to walk in the country or a park you can observe the changing face of nature every season. Who could not feel better hearing the birds sing or not rejoice in the rainbow of colour of summer flowers? You can in your quiet uninterrupted walking time, perhaps, compose a poem or even plan your novel!

It’s never too late to start walking so put on your boots and off you go.
Enjoy your walking and feel younger!