When the early morning alarm goes off, the first thing on your mind may be hitting the snooze button and catching a few more winks. Resisting that urge and taking an early morning walk instead may be the better choice for your body, mind, and spirit. Here are the benefits of starting your day off on the right foot, so to speak.
More Energizing Than a Cup of Coffee
It might sound crazy, but a morning walk can give you the boost of energy you need to start the day. Studies show that walking outdoors for as little as 20 minutes increases vitality, and a short 10 minute walk up and down the stairs may be as energizing as a cup of coffee.
Greater energy isn’t the only benefit from a morning walk. Starting your day with a walk may also put you in a better mood. I can also increase self-esteem, as well as reduce stress and anxiety. Other studies show that a simple walk can increase mental clarity and reduce fatigue along with feelings of depression.
The next time you’re dreading that long workday, take a 20-minute walk before you hit the office and enjoy the lasting benefits. Just remember to stay safe and follow your state’s pedestrian laws. Plenty of morning walkers have asked for the help of Bay Area pedestrian accident attorney Dan Rose when an inattentive driver peeled onto the sidewalk.
Rethinking Your Exercise Routine
You probably know the feeling of being too tired to work out after a long day at the office. Why not start your day off with a 20 to 30-minute walk around the block, allowing you to complete your exercise goals off the bat?
Getting your 30 minutes in 5 days a week will also help you meet the recommended 150 to 300 minutes of weekly physical activity for adults. Not only can this help you stay healthy for years to come, but it’s also an excellent way to lose weight (if that’s what you’re looking for).
A 30-minute walk can burn up to 150 calories. Walking can also help to build muscle, especially when combined with hand weights. Walking can also contribute to boosting your immunity, lowering your risk of heart disease, and regulating blood sugar levels. Studies also show that walking may reduce the risk of certain cancers and increase life span when combined with a healthy diet and strength training.
Making Healthier Choices
Walking in the morning may also help you make healthier choices throughout the day. You may feel more alert, energized, and less sleep deprived. Oftentimes, feeling run down may lead to grabbing unhealthy snacking. Change your routine, and you’re more likely to pick up a healthy snack during the day.
Better Sleep
Having trouble sleeping at night? A 20 to 30-minute walk may be just what you need. Studies have shown that walking earlier in the day may result in falling asleep faster at night. Walking in the morning may also help improve the quality of sleep and even aid with insomnia. The psychological benefits from an early morning walk may carry over into the night, resulting in a more peaceful mind and more restful sleep.
The Takeaway
Staring the day with a 20 to 30-minute walk can contribute to overall well-being. To experience a clearer mind and more energy, better health and better nutritional choices, and a more restful night’s sleep, set your alarm for 30 minutes earlier and get moving first thing in the morning.
