Research just out from the Kramer Institute shows that walking can actually boost the connectivity within brain circuits, which tends to diminish as the grey hairs multiply.
The findings come as no surprise to Dr. Lynn Millar, an expert with the American College of Sports Medicine. She said while walking might seem like a simple activity, the brain is actually also working.
"When we walk we integrate visual input, auditory input, as well as input that's coming from joints and muscles regarding where the foot is, how much force, and things like that " said Millar, a professor of Physical Therapy at Andrews University, in Berrien Springs, Michigan.
"It's that old concept: if you don't use it you lose it," she said. "In order for something to be beneficial we need to do it repetitively, and walking is a repetitive activity."
Living in Wellington we have no excuse not to be using it.
From along Oriental Parade, across mount Victoria or out along the south coast Wellingtonians are spoilt with the walkways throughout and minutes from the city.
Last weekend I discovered a walkway that is part of the town belt, linking the town end of Mount Cook through lush native bush to Newtown.
I often forget how close walkways are to the city, from the CBD – it was less than 5mins till I was swapped the footpaths for flowers.
I felt amazing, trees, fresh air, solitude. Just me and the birds. The perfect tonic after a week of work, and life in the concrete city.
For me walking outside as a means of keeping fit physically and emotionally far beats going to the gym.
I dread the gym, too me it often feels like going from one office to another.
So walking, and discovering Wellington’s paths and parks is my new Spring resolution!
And reading this new research I really do see how my mind is being kept supple along with my body.
This Saturday is National Parks Day and the council’s park rangers are holding free City to Sea walks. This Saturday is the creative art and photography walk, so bring along your camera, pencil and a sketchbook.
If you go I would love to hear all about it, and I will let you know where my wandering takes me.
Until then let me know, where is your favorite walk in Wellington?
What’s it like and how does it make you feel?
Have a great week,
Hanna
Choice Lifestyle