You may not know about this but April 5th of the National Walking Day. I don't know about you, but I walk a lot - in fact, it's my favourite type of physical activity. It's one of the most accessible forms of exercise and has many benefits for both physical and mental health. In the United States, where obesity rates are high, walking can be a simple and effective way to improve overall health.
Sadly, obesity has become an issue. I, myself, am not thin, and most of the people around me don't necessarily have the healthiest BMIs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the obesity rate in the United States is around 42%, and it's a significant contributor to various health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. However, there's a simple solution that doesn't involve restrictive diets or expensive gym memberships: walking. Hense the National Walking Day! If you ask me, this day is every day.
Walking has so many benefits. It can improve mental health by reducing stress and anxiety levels. In fact, studies have shown that walking in nature can have a calming effect on the mind, reduce symptoms of depression, and improve overall well-being. I can attest to mood and health improvement, although don't quote me on this since I'm not a doctor.
But the benefits of walking go beyond just physical and mental health. Walking is also a great way to connect with others and build communities. Many cities and towns have walking groups or clubs where people can meet new friends and socialize while getting some exercise. Walking can also be a great way to explore new places and get to know your neighborhood. Have you ever walked around the local park and made a friend in the process? Well, maybe it's time to start. And it doesn't matter in you live in the boogie Manhattan or slightly more distant Staten Island.
In addition, walking is an eco-friendly and sustainable form of transportation. Instead of driving everywhere, consider walking to nearby destinations, such as the grocery store or a friend's house. Walking can also save money on gas and car maintenance, making it a budget-friendly option. I mean, when it comes to NYC, many, if not most, folks prefer the subway... But maybe skipping it and walking a few stops is something you're willing to do.
In conclusion, walking is an excellent form of exercise with many benefits for both physical and mental health. It's an accessible and affordable option for people of all ages and fitness levels, and it's a great way to improve overall health and well-being. Incorporating more walking into daily routines makes it possible to lead a more active and healthy lifestyle.
New York City has many parks and green spaces, so grab your walking shoes and start moving! You don't need to live near a large park to begin your walking journey. I, for one, am happy to walk to the grocery store or the nearest square, where I make a few laps, sit down, and enjoy the weather. That's if we're not talking about winter! Maybe there is a reason why the National Walking Day is in the second week of April: it's a reminder that summer is almost upon us, and it's time to get the sandals and shorts out and walk!... Well, almost - I don't think it's warm enough yet.
But if you're lucky enough to live next door to Central Park, Hudson River Park, Hign Line Park, Prospect Park, Battery Park or any other well-known place in NYC - you're lucky. Maybe you should give walking a shot starting this month.
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