For millions of people around the world, the recent pandemic has uprooted lives and caused excessive amounts of stress. While having to deal with shelter-in-place orders and lockdowns, it is important to find ways to combat stress and keep your physical and mental health in check. One great way to accomplish both of these is going for walks. The best thing about walking is that you can easily social distance yourself while doing it.
Importance Of Walking While Sheltering In Place
If you are required to stay home because of the virus for weeks on end, you could end up noticing your mental and physical health start to decline. Many people find themselves eating more and moving less while stuck at home. Walking is an easy, free, and beneficial activity that you should do each day. Taking a walk for at least 30 minutes or more can offer benefits such as cardiovascular health, improved mood, better circulation, increased muscle strength, better balance, and reduction of stress.
Tips For Making The Most Out Of Your Walk
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You don't have to don yourself in complete workout gear or sweat-inducing sneakers to go for a walk. Because the weather is getting warmer, you can wear comfortable sandals instead. The key is to be comfortable enough to walk longer and enjoy yourself while outside. Walking is a convenient activity that can benefit many aspects of your mental and physical health.
Get Arms Swinging
There is a reason some people swing their arms while they walk. Pumping your arms vigorously while walking can increase the health benefits of walking. It can give you an upper body workout while you are getting your legs in shape. To swing your arms properly, bend them at a 90-degree angle and pump your arms from your shoulders. Be sure to keep your wrists straight and unclench your elbows.
Use Weights
Another way to enhance your walks during the pandemic is to carry light weights with you. This can increase the number of calories you burn and build your upper body strength at the same time. Be sure to not swing your arms too much while walking. When not done correctly, you could risk soreness or injuries.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Just like wearing proper and comfortable shoes, it is important to wear comfortable clothing while walking. You don't want anything too tight or restricting. If the weather is warm, ensure you wear clothing that is breathable so you don't overheat.
Wear Sunscreen
If you begin to take daily walks during the pandemic, you need to remember to protect your skin from the sun. Even a short time outside can put many people at risk of getting a sunburn and increasing their risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen will protect your skin from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun which can also cause dark spots, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
Take Your Family With You
Chances are good that your family is home and quarantined during the pandemic as well. Going out for walks with everyone is a good way to bond and spend quality time together. If you have a dog, consider bringing them for some exercise with you.
With COVID-19 causing stay-at-home orders around the world, people need to find simple ways to stay healthy and sane. Daily walks are a simple and effective way to stay healthy and keep your mental health intact.
