There’s no simpler way to maintain overall health than going for a walk. Experts say even just a brisk 10 minute walk each day can be beneficial for weight maintenance, lowering blood pressure and improving your mood.

Combined with better eating, it is possible to even reduce the risk of death. A new study released in the journal “Sleep Health” also found some brand new reasons to lace up your sneakers and start trekking. This includes the effect walking has on getting a better night’s sleep.

According to the study, the subjects being monitored we’re able to improve the quality of their sleep when they also were increasing their daily activity levels. For some, there were also improvements in the duration of sleep when they were getting in more daily movement.

Another major benefit of walking is the prevention of cognitive decline. With Alzheimer’s and dementia a growing concern among the aging population, it is important to change lifestyle behaviors early. The World Health Organization says walking and other brain intense activities should become a regular practice to aide in slowing the progression of the disease early on.  

According to research, walking activates the brain waves and helps improve its ability to resist the cognitive impairment that happens over time with the disease. To help on this front, it is recommended that at least 5 miles be walked each week.

Here are some ideas to begin incorporating more walking into your daily routine.

• Park farther away when going to work or the store, you’d be surprised how quickly those extra steps will add up.
• Use your lunch hour to plan a walk around the outdoors for fresh air and an energy boost.
• Get the whole family involved. Make time after dinner for a nightly walk with pets and family – it’s good for everyone.
• Wear a fitness watch designed to monitor your daily steps and motivate and remind you to get up and walk when you’ve been idle for too long.

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