While there are many options to exercise; walking is the most ideal for me; it is practical, convenient and effective. It is the least demanding exercise, all we need is a good and comfortable walking shoes. This exercise can be done anytime anywhere.
After walking consistently everyday for more than 8 years and reading countless articles on wellness and fitness; I realized that walking is my jam!
Why did I choose walking as my way to fitness?
Exercise experts say that we need to establish a sustainable routine for longtime fitness; something that we are able to do physically and regularly to incorporate in our lifestyle. Imagine if I chose jogging, how long do you think I can make a go of it at my age; notwithstanding the pressure it will do to my joints?
Why did I set 10,000 steps as my goal?
Actually, I initially targeted 5,000 when I seriously decided walking everyday. Baby steps they say, until I felt that I can do more.
By coincidence, the distance from my house going to the farthest street near the entrance of the village makes one full circle that is approximately 3,300+ steps. When I did 3 rounds, I met my goal!
Later, I read that the 10,000 steps was not based on any scientific health research, but a marketing strategy for a Japanese step counter Manpo-Kei; “manpo” in English means 10,000. It is presumed that the choice was made because the number 10,000 in Japanese character resembles a man walking.
My walking enhanced my social connections in the community. Not only did I meet wonderful people, my neighbors who also walk. We got acquainted and before we knew it we developed a clique, a walking club we call the Sweet Magnolias. But I did meet more people around who became good friends and a lot of acquaintances as well.
I did not expect that at my age; barely a year before I will start my 9th decade that I will feel this way in my lifetime. I am amazed that my mind, body and spirit are in sync; giving me a total feel-good state of wellbeing. Never before did I feel better. After my morning walk, I feel happy, energized and ready to take on the day.
The reason must be that I could now exercise consistently; early on work responsibilities and raising children made me sideline self care often.
Of course we cannot discount some days when I feel under the weather, catch colds and a cough or two. But most days are pleasant and joyful.
Medical experts agree that walking is an easy way to enhance wellness of mind and body. It promotes longer life, boost my mood and calms me. It helps lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, dementia and depression.
I am diabetic and I am happy to note that walking helps maintain my blood sugar levels.
I have to qualify that my overall wellness does not depend wholly on walking and this wellness is “on going”, meaning that it can change if I ditch the following daily habits that promote health.
-Eat healthy foods; I keep in mind that “what you eat is what you are”.
-Get enough rest, take naps and enough sleep.
-Practice mindfulness and build social connections.
-Open to new experiences and I embrace change.
What about you, have you found the exercise you enjoy to incorporate in your lifestyle? Please share in the comments your successes and setbacks.
