How to Beat Stress by Walking

Walking, the simplest form of exercise, is good for both your body and your state of mind. Whether you walk inside on a treadmill or outside on the sidewalk, you will find that you will burn calories and decrease stress at the same time. If you can fit a ten minute walk into your daily routine, you will soon begin to see your stress levels drop.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Walking shoes

1. Warm up. Every kind of exercise, including walking, should be preceded by a brief period of stretching. Follow the stretching by walking in place for 30 seconds and you'll be ready to go.
2. Use proper form. You've been walking since you were a baby, but for best stress-beating you need to use the best form. You need to stand up straight, keep your chin parallel to the ground and walk purposefully.
3. Find a friend. The stress-beating qualities of walking will be enhanced if you walk with a friend. Walking with a friend gives you someone to talk with and helps you stay motivated.
4. Keep on walking. A long-term walking program has better stress-beating properties than other forms of exercise.
5. Buy new shoes. Replace your walking shoes at least every six months or after after every 500 miles of walking, whichever comes first.

Tips & Warnings

• Drink plenty of water. Start with a glass of water fifteen minutes before you walk. If you're walking during hot weather, take a bottle of water with you, so that you can rehydrate frequently.
• Stop walking immediately if you begin to feel nauseated or dizzy, or if you have chest pain. Call your doctor or go to the nearest hospital.