Walk your way to better health

Spring is here! It’s a good time to head outside to get some exercise. One popular method? Walking.

Walking can help you lose weight, strengthen your muscles and improve your sleep. It also puts less stress on your body than running or jogging.

Here are some small ways to include more walking in your daily routine:

• When shopping, park farther away from the store or mall, then take an extra lap or three around those places.
• Meeting up with a friend? Get your steps in by walking to meet friends instead of driving. Or talk with them about joining – or creating – a local walking club.
• Whenever it’s an option, take the stairs instead of an elevator or escalator to increase your heart rate and burn more calories.

Another bonus: Walking can improve your mental health! Being outside in the sunlight helps keep your serotonin levels up, which boosts your mood and helps keep your energy levels up. Give it a try!