The benefits of walking for your physical and mental health
10th March 2020
As you may be aware, the Advance TRS team has taken on the challenge of walking 10k steps a day throughout March again this year. We’re excited to raise money for Surrey-based mental health charity Oakleaf. Team members are asked to donate money for each day they don’t reach the 10k steps target. At Advance TRS raising money for charity, taking on personal challenges and fundraising activities to advance others has been a core founding principle.
You can read more about the challenge in last week’s blog post.
It is well-known that besides the physical benefits, getting up and moving also has a big impact on our mental well-being.
Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
You don’t have to go on hour-long hikes. Going for a 30-minute walk each day can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. The same can be said for stress. If you’ve had a busy day at work, going for a wander afterwards might help to clear your head.
Better sleep and improved mood
Going for regular walks will help you sleep better and leave you with higher energy levels throughout the day. The endorphins released into your body during a walk can help to improve your mood and make you feel happier.
Better memory
Daily walks also have a positive effect on your memory and your mind, cutting the risk of developing Alzheimer’s by around 45%.
Other health benefits associated with walking
Going for regular walks can drastically lower your risk of having strokes or developing heart disease or diabetes and can even add a couple of years to your life.
Even getting in a few minutes of walking each day, whether it’s during your lunch break, before or after work or with a friend on a day off will greatly benefit your health and mental wellbeing. Time to get up and start moving!
If you’d like to help us reach our target, you can make a donation to Oakleaf here.
At Advance TRS, we understand that reducing work-related stress can be hugely beneficial to all. We take our obligation to ensure the health, safety and welfare of employees seriously. Our comprehensive wellness programme and mental health awareness training have recently been recognised as Advance TRS were shortlisted as finalists in the Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing category in the Solent Business Awards 2019.
Follow Advance TRS charity and fundraising activities on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.
For the latest news and take a look at our Advance Advice on Mental Health in the workplace for further information.
