In our fast-paced lives, stress often lurks just around the corner, waiting to pounce on us when we least expect it. We do our best to prevent it with mindful practices like adequate sleep, balanced schedules, exercise, and healthy eating. But even with our best efforts, stress can still creep in, especially during seasons filled with extra activities and the pressure to meet expectations. So, what can you do when you find yourself in the midst of a stress overload? The answer may surprise you, and it doesn’t involve meditation or complicated techniques. Instead, it’s as simple as stepping outside for a walk or run. Just 5 to 10 minutes can make a remarkable difference.

The Timeless Stress Cure

As Henry David Thoreau eloquently put it, “I took a walk in nature and came out taller than the trees.” Walking in the great outdoors has been a stress remedy for centuries, and there’s a good reason why – it works.

You don’t need to be surrounded by towering trees or pristine wilderness to reap the benefits. You can do it almost anywhere. And if you can’t take a full-fledged walk, even sitting outside for a few minutes can provide relief.

Here are a few reasons why this simple practice can help alleviate stress:

• Escape from Stressful Environments: One of the most significant advantages of stepping outside is that it removes you from the stress-inducing environment. This change of scenery is essential as it allows you to naturally shift your energy and perspective. It’s like hitting the reset button for your mind.
• Reconnection with the Outside World: When stress takes over, it often traps us in a cycle of anxious and worried thoughts. Taking a walk outdoors encourages you to pause and reconnect with your surroundings. Observe the world around you—the colors, the sounds, and the beauty of nature. This act of mindfulness can help break the loop of stressful thinking.
• Reconnection with Your Body: Stress often makes us feel like we’re stuck “in our heads,” lost in a whirlwind of thoughts. Physical tension accompanies this mental stress. Walking allows your muscles to loosen up, releasing physical tension and helping you feel more at ease. It’s a gentle reminder that your body deserves care and attention.

Health Benefits Beyond Stress Relief

Beyond its stress-relieving qualities, walking or running outside offers numerous health benefits. It’s good for your heart, helps maintain overall health, and contributes to a sense of well-being.

As we approach seasons filled with added activities and expectations, it’s crucial to keep stress at bay. While we hope to avoid “holiday stress,” sometimes it sneaks in anyway. When it does, remember this simple yet effective solution – go for a walk or run outside. Even just a few minutes can make a world of difference. Nature has been our trusted stress cure for generations, and it remains one of the most accessible and immediate remedies at our disposal.

So, lace up those walking shoes, step outside, and let the soothing embrace of nature wash away your stress. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or an invigorating run, the great outdoors is ready to be your partner in stress relief.

Make it a nature-filled kind of day,

Keith, Michelle & More Team

REFERENCE:  

www.verywellfit.com/walking-for-your-mind-and-spirit-3432871