As the weather gets colder and days become shorter, it’s easy to become less active than during the summer months. With a slowed metabolism during fall and winter, our cardiovascular health may take a hit. To maintain overall health during these colder seasons, walking is an excellent choice for exercise. Research even shows that walking can prevent cancer.
But before diving into the benefits of walking, let’s explore an even better approach: earthing. This practice involves walking barefoot on natural surfaces such as grass, sand, or the soil itself. Earthing has been linked to numerous health benefits, including increased antioxidant protection, reduced inflammation, improved cardiovascular health, less pain, cortisol and hormone balance, more restful sleep, and other miscellaneous benefits. Of course, walking with shoes still provides significant health benefits, but earthing further connects us with our ancestral roots.
The Connection between Walking and Cancer Prevention
Several studies have shown that walking daily can reduce the risk of various cancers and improve clinical outcomes in patients with diseases such as breast and bowel cancer. Specifically, regular exercise can enhance oxygenation, circulation, immune response, and the removal of toxins while easing tension and stress. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to be an athlete to achieve these health benefits.
You might wonder why walking is so effective in cancer prevention and treatment. The key lies in the movement of the body. Other forms of body movement, such as dancing and yoga, can also help prevent cancer. Foods, herbs, and supplements that stimulate circulation and body movement are also valuable additions to integrated cancer prevention and treatment regimens. High-intensity sports and exercises, on the other hand, may not provide the same health benefits due to their stressful and goal-driven nature.
The Secret Benefits of Walking
When you walk, especially in nature, you clear your mind and become more present in the moment. Walking also allows you to immerse yourself in your surroundings, which can facilitate natural healing. Furthermore, the rhythmic aspect of walking can lead to emotional healing as well. Feelings and emotions may surface during a walk, and you’ll have the opportunity to process them.
The physical, emotional, and psychological benefits of walking all connect through rhythmic breathing. In contrast to high-powered exercises and competitive sports, walking enables you to synchronize the movement of your body, breath, and mind. As you start walking more regularly, you may notice that your inhalation and exhalation become more even and smoother. This helps to expand your healing capacities.
In essence, walking is a harmonizing therapy that balances your body, mind, and spirit. By incorporating this simple yet profound exercise into your daily routine, you can maintain good health during the colder seasons and beyond. Remember, you don’t have to walk barefoot to enjoy these remarkable benefits. Just take a step forward and embark on your journey towards optimal health.
