Mornings have always been hard for me. Quite frankly, I’m a grouch until 10-11 a.m. regardless of the number of hours I slept. “Happy” is the last thing I would consider myself feeling, and anyone who knows me would agree (although they might just be scared to say otherwise for fear of my inner grouch rearing it’s ugly head).
Unfortunately, my adopted pup, Erin, doesn’t understand this.
She wakes me every morning no later than 6 a.m. to start our day. Granted, 6 a.m. probably doesn’t seem that bad, but for someone who struggles with mornings as much as I do, it makes my heart hurt.
I tried snoozing my energetic, furry alarm but resistance was futile.
Coffee helps to take the edge off, but it isn’t quite enough to satisfy my inner grouch. I didn’t like how I felt; I knew I had to turn my frown upside down as quickly as possible.
Why walk?
Erin loves going for walks, as many dogs do, so I started taking her on 30-minute walks around our neighborhood every morning to try to make up for my terrible attitude. Erin was able to explore and release some of her pent up, overnight energy, and I noticed that I was reaping benefits of my own.
Walking is good for your health. Thirty minutes of brisk walking daily can improve and maintain your overall health, including improving cardiovascular fitness, enhancing muscle strength, and reducing excess body fat. Additionally, walking can help ease stress, reduce anxiety, and boost your mood (a.k.a. happiness!). I’ve experienced this first-hand. After walking regularly for a couple weeks, I noticed that I wasn’t as grouchy in the morning, generally happier throughout the day, and actually looked forward to our walks. I even shed a few pounds! Note: Please consult with your doctor before beginning any exercise regimen.
Walking is free. Since being unemployed, I’ve prioritized low-cost alternatives to things that I would consider purchasing if my situation was different; no gym memberships or streaming services for me!
Walking doesn’t require any special knowledge or training, and very little equipment; a decent pair of walking shoes or sneakers will do the trick!
Walking is flexible. Walking is a weight-bearing but low impact exercise which can be done for any length of time and at any pace. This makes walking an appropriate form of exercise for almost anyone regardless of fitness level. You can walk whenever and almost wherever you’d like (no trespassing, please), which makes it easy to integrate into a busy schedule. You can dedicate a set amount of time or distance to walk, like I do in the morning, or easily add extra steps into your day by taking the stairs instead of an elevator, parking farther away from a store’s entrance, or walking around the house while on the phone or brushing your teeth. However, if you are concerned or have a medical condition, PLEASE consult with your doctor before beginning any other exercise regimen.
Walking is a social distancing-approved activity. Normally, you could walk with friends or with a walking group, but social distancing has significantly limited our ability to do so. However, walking can be done individually, and you may find that you actually enjoy the time to yourself. I enjoy the quiet and use that time to outline my goals for the day, practice mindfulness, and enjoy time with my pup. If you can’t stand the idea of walking alone, consider popping in ear buds with your favorite playlist or call a friend to chat.
Obviously, walking has its benefits. I’d encourage you to experiment with walking and see if it helps to elevate your happiness as it has mine. It’s become something I enjoy so much that I’ve added an evening walk to my routine as well!
Five tips for happier steps
To build upon the inherent happiness-boosting properties of walking, I’d recommend the following:
- Make walking a routine. Routines help us stay focused and structured, which aids in stress reduction and ultimately improves our happiness. The beauty of walking is that you can choose how and when it fits into your schedule, but adding it to your routine will take out any stressful guesswork or planning. Every morning, after Erin is fed and I have my first cup of coffee, we’re headed out the door for our walk. I don’t need to think about it, I don’t procrastinate, it just happens. Less stress = more happiness.
- Go green. Head outside and fill your lungs with fresh air and soak in all of the Vitamin D you can. I try to stay away from heavy traffic and busy streets when I walk since those areas are loud, distracting, and take away from the experience and relaxation I look forward to. I’d recommend not only staying away from congested areas, but walking where you actually see green, like parks, open fields, or hiking trails. These areas will help you feel happier and less anxious overall, and shift your energy to a more positive one. More peace = more happiness.
- Practice mindfulness. Use your walk to let your body and mind recharge, whether that means you plan out your day, practice meditation, or simply do your best to clear your mind for a few minutes. Leave your to-do list and stresses of the day at home, they will be there when you return. Appreciate and be thankful for moment you are in. More gratitude = more happiness.
- Unplug. I recommend using your walk as an opportunity to take a break. I know it’s easy to pull out your phone and scroll through social media, but please, keep it out of sight during your walk. Not only is your phone distracting, it can be downright dangerous if you aren’t paying attention to where you’re walking. In fact, cell phones may inhibit your brain from recharging effectively. Take a break, relax, and be happy. Fewer distractions = more happiness.
- Bring a friend (two or four-legged). Although we might not be able to do this now, I would recommend bringing a friend, whether human or animal, to accompany you on your walks. It’ll not only add an element of fun to your walk, but it will hold you accountable. The lack of accountability was one of my biggest obstacles to exercising in general. I always had an excuse; I was too tired, didn’t have enough time, didn’t want to miss this television show, the list goes on. If it wasn’t for my original commitment to Erin, to be a better version of myself for her, I would not have started walking consistently. I wouldn’t have experienced the benefits of walking regularly, nor realized how much I enjoy that time in general. Greater success = more happiness.
Whether you are in great shape or just starting out, walking has the potential to help you, body and mind. I hope you consider these tips helpful and encouraging.
Do you walk (or run) regularly? What are your tips for happier, more successful sessions?
personal breathing space 