Take a Walk and Add Years to Your Life

Take a Walk and Add Years to Your Life
The word is out: walking can slow the aging process and keep you feeling great! So you want to be healthy, energetic, and vibrant? Look at all the ways walking can enhance your life:

Heart Health. The cardiovascular system naturally weakens with the years. Walking strengthens your heart and gets it pumping. A study at Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania showed that people, who exercise at least 30 minutes a day, three times a week, actually slowed the general decline in heart health.
Weight Management. Everyone's metabolism tends to slow over time. This can lead to weight gain. Walking burns calories and fights unwanted pounds. A healthy weight limits your chances of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.
Strong muscles and bones. As we age, our muscles and bones tend to weaken. We're more apt to get things like osteoporosis or arthritis. But if you keep moving and stay active, you can be mobile and flexible.
Positive Mind. Regular walks are an escape from mental stress. They give you time to process your thoughts and release negativity. This creates an optimistic outlook which keeps you from feeling depressed or anxious. A positive attitude also can improve your immune system.

Keep Walking
Make a commitment to walk every day—even if it's only for 10 or 15 minutes. In fact, if you're a beginner, it's best to start small. Walk for short distances and times, then gradually work your way up. Try these tips to invigorate your walks:

Grab a Friend. For companionship and extra motivation, ask your spouse, friend, child, grandchild, or neighbor to join you.
Take time to smell the roses. For a more inviting experience, select scenic paths, routes, or trails.
Walk when you like to walk. If you're a morning person, get up a half hour early and take a walk. If you're more energetic later in the day, work in some steps in the afternoon or after dinner.