Early morning walks offer a comprehensive array of benefits for both physical and mental well-being, making them a favored routine among celebrities like Shilpa Saklani Agnihotri. According to Dr. P Venkata Krishnan, senior consultant in internal medicine at Artemis Hospitals, walking 5-10 km each morning provides numerous physical advantages. It helps maintain a healthy weight, improves overall fitness levels, and is gentle on the joints due to its low-impact nature, making it suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels.
Regular walking strengthens bones and muscles, enhances cardiovascular health, and boosts metabolism, contributing to improved circulation and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Moreover, it aids in burning calories, supports weight management, and helps regulate blood sugar levels and digestion.
Beyond physical benefits, early morning walks have significant mental and emotional advantages. Dr. Krishnan notes that walking stimulates the release of endorphins, which are “feel-good” hormones that elevate mood and reduce stress and anxiety. Starting the day with a brisk walk can enhance energy levels, focus, and overall positivity throughout the day. Dr. Shazia Shadab, lead physiotherapist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bangalore, emphasizes that regular walking strengthens muscles in the legs, hips, and core, improving overall physical performance while being gentle on joints compared to high-impact exercises like running. It also enhances joint flexibility and reduces the risk of arthritis.
Moreover, walking outdoors in natural sunlight exposes individuals to vitamin D, crucial for regulating mood and promoting mental well-being. Dr. Krishnan highlights that exposure to natural light helps regulate circadian rhythms, leading to better sleep patterns. Additionally, walking in green spaces or natural environments has been linked to reduced feelings of depression and increased cognitive function.
In essence, integrating early morning walks into one’s routine offers a holistic approach to health, benefiting both the body and mind. It supports physical fitness, cardiovascular health, weight management, and joint flexibility while promoting mental well-being, mood elevation, stress reduction, and improved sleep quality. These combined benefits underscore the importance of regular physical activity like walking in maintaining overall health and vitality.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
