The Ramblers Festival of Winter Walks is back from December 20 to January 5 encouraging everyone to explore outdoors.
For many the festive season can be overwhelming, leaving us stressed and disconnected from nature.
So, why not unwind with their winter walks guide and groups which are offering an array of free festive led walks to try.
There’s something for everyone from heart-racing hikes, to serene strolls. Here are dozens of walks in our area around South Gloucester and North Bristol.
Benefits of walking
It’s simple, it’s free and it’s one of the easiest ways to get more active, lost weight and become healthier.
Great for burning calories and building stamina, you don’t have to work for hours to feel the benefits. A brisk walk is considered faster than a stroll, at about 3 mile per hour. Just 10 minutes per day can make a difference. If you can’t sing a song while you’re walking – that’s considered brisk!
If you’re not very active but are able to walk, increase your walking distance gradually.
Examples include:
- walking part of your journey to work
- walking to the shops
- using the stairs instead of the lift
- leaving the car behind for short journeys
- walking the kids to school
- doing a regular walk with a friend
- going for a stroll with family or friends after dinner
Underrated
Walking is a hugely under rated form of physical exercise. It can also help alleviate depression and fatigue, improve mood, create less stress on joins and can reduce risks for cancer and chronic disease. Read about other benefits here…
Mental health
It’s not just physical well-being that can improve, walking is also great for mental health. Did you know a short walk can:
- Improve brain function – memory was found to work better after a walk
- Improves mood – there’s a clear link between a person’s step count and energy level
- Better sleep – walking boosts sleep hormones, so you’ll feel more rested
- Creativity – a good walk can help boost ideas and mental stimulation
For more on the benefits read this great blog.
Hopefully you’ll now feel inspired to put on those walking shoes and get out and about this winter.
