After I became a widow I noticed that my mood drastically changed and that walking fights grief, even as my broken heart was healing. I still have my days, but walking helps mentally prepare me for those days.  As the years go by I’ve noticed a positive increase in my mood.  Walking has so many benefits and its free – why shouldn’t widows take advantage of it? I never used to be much of a walker, so I’ll be the first to admit that it didn’t come naturally to me.  Walking calms me and it’s made me realize how many little wonders are out there for me to notice. If healing your broken heart isn’t enough to get you walking, how about keeping agile as you age?  Others may be shuffling along with walkers or using scooters, while you are easily walking. Researchers believe that 30 minutes five times a week will give you an energy boost, better sleep and even help curb cravings for sugary snacks.   There are many more health benefits from walking:

• Two hours a week can reduce risk of stroke.
• Eases depression and builds self-confidence.
• Helps prevent hyper tension and diabetes.
• Forty minutes 3 x a week increases size of brain regions associated with memory.

You can do the walk wherever you like, outdoors, on a treadmill, stairs or exercise walking videos.  Walking is a free and healthy way to explore and for me it’s a great opportunity to spend time with a friend.   Tips for Your Walk:

• Do a light warm up to start.
• Walk at a pace where conversation is difficult.
• At the end go back to an easy pace.
• Pop in your headphones for music, podcasts or audio-book.
• Alternate between speed walking and slower pace.
• If using a treadmill, do incline intervals.
• Use your senses – listen to the sounds around you, see the colours/scenery and smell the earthy mulch, flowers or fresh cut grass.