A quick stroll through the park is simple and can do wonders for your well-being. March 30th is National Take a Walk in the Park Day. No matter how big or small your local park is, you can make the most of the day by going outside. Here are six benefits of taking a walk in the park.
1) Improves Mental Health and Wellbeing
There is not just a physiological side to how walking in the park can improve mental health and well-being. Being close to the ponds, woodlands and rivers in parks will allow you to connect with nature and wildlife and also helps to alleviate mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Spending time in nature has numerous positive effects on mental health and well-being. When walking in the park, people walk amongst greenery and let in more fresh air, which calms the mind and body. It can help us relax and feel more connected to the world.
2) Walking in the park can help reduce loneliness
Whilst time to yourself helps to establish one’s thoughts and navigate the world, extreme periods of loneliness are something nobody should face. Walking in the park with friends or family provides an opportunity to bond; this can help to wipe the mind clean and allow one to think clearly and potentially make better business or familial decisions. Walking in the park with friends or family can be a simple yet effective way to reduce feelings of loneliness. It provides an opportunity to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and bond with loved ones.
3) Improve your sleep
Walking can enhance the production of sleep hormones, specifically melatonin; this is crucial in regulating the circadian rhythm and promoting sleep. It can help to promote a more restful and better night’s sleep, leading to improved mood, energy, and productivity during waking hours.
Walking outdoors in a park or natural environment can have additional benefits for sleep. Exposure to natural light and fresh air can help regulate the body’s natural rhythms and induce relaxation and calmness. Walking can help to tire out the body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
4) It can help aid creativity in your children
Walking in the park can benefit people of all ages. A brisk walk can be a great way to exercise and enjoy the fresh air for older generations. However, adults are not the only ones who can benefit from spending time in a park. It can be a place of endless possibilities and imagination for children.
One of the best things about outdoor playgrounds is that they provide children with many apparatuses to play on. From swings and slides to climbing frames and monkey bars, there are several different ways for children to engage with their surroundings and let their imaginations run wild. By exploring and experimenting with these pieces of equipment, children can develop their creative play skills and find new and exciting ways to use the apparatuses.
In addition to boosting creativity, spending time in outdoor playgrounds can also help children develop their communication skills. They are likely to meet and interact with other children. It presents an opportunity for them to practice their social skills, learn how to cooperate with others, and even invent unique games and activities together.
5) There are many physical health benefits
While many individuals strive to achieve a step count of 10,000 steps per day as a benchmark for physical activity, it’s important to note that a daily walk of just 20 to 30 minutes can still provide significant benefits for your health and wellness. Regular walking can reduce the risk of numerous chronic illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes, improve joint mobility and alleviate pain in those suffering from arthritis.
Needless to say, walking in the park can significantly change a person’s mental and physical makeup. Are there any other hidden benefits to this easy exercise? Comment below or send a Tweet to Mirodo’s Twitter account if we have missed any!