Several years ago I made a decision to start walking outside, as often as possible. I average five to six days per week. My route is 3.5 miles long and it takes me about fifty minutes. The days that I don't walk are usually because of weather, like high winds, rain, or winter temperatures below 20 degrees. During winter months, my walking also depends on the amount of snow and ice on streets and sidewalks.
Because I jogged regularly several decades ago, it was no surprise to realize that the benefits of walking would be both physical and mental.
But what about inside walking compared to outside walking? I enjoy walking outside but I'm not interested in walking inside. I wondered why? Then I read an article that confirmed how I felt. Please refer to this article from Prevention, where they said in part,
"You've probably heard of a runner's high before, but did you know that walking can give you a walker's high? As you log miles your brain releases "happy" chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, that can lift your mood both during and after your workout. Walking outside has also been shown to lower rates of depression more effectively than walking indoors".
Also, I live and work in the northeast. My blood tests have shown I need to take a supplement of vitamin D because my bare skin is not exposed enough to sunlight. (Yes, in addition, we should all be wearing sun protection too)
The Mayo Clinic says regular brisk walking can help you:
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Prevent or manage various conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes
• Strengthen your bones and muscles
• Improve your mood
• Improve your balance and coordination
Should you walk alone or with a friend?
Is your happy place "alone" so you can focus on an audio book while walking? Is your neighborhood safe and friendly? Your safety is priority one and if walking with a friend you can each look out for the other.
If you prefer to walk alone, but not totally alone, here is another option. Your local high school may have an oval shaped track that is open to the public. And the bonus is many tracks constructed recently have a soft, rubbery surface which is very comfortable to walk on.
It's more fun to listen to your favorite music or audio book while walking. Our Cell Phone Bags are a great way to stay connected. Below are suggestions for four different ways to wear our phone bags. We're open to your suggestions too!
Refer to above image, here the strap is adjusted to fit your waist and the bag is attached using the carabiner. In this example our model is wearing a fitted top tucked in. But, you also have the option to wear a loose fitting top that is not tucked in, your top would cover the strap and the top part of the bag. First, adjust the strap to fit your waist. Then pass one hook through the carabiner & connect the strap! You can access the bags rear compartment easily by turning the bag over. The bag will slide easily from side to front to whatever position you like!
Refer to image above, strap length is adjusted for wearing at the waist, but instead of attaching the bag by using the carabiner (see prior example) in this instance the bag is attached using its D-rings. This is a good option if you prefer the bag to be more rigid. You can access the rear compartment by flipping the bag upside down, but caution, first make sure the top zipper is closed!
Refer to above image, adjust the strap length for wearing the bag around your neck. This works well in cold or wet weather because the bag can alternate from inside to outside your coat or rain slicker, without removing your coat! If it starts to snow or rain, you can easily move the bag inside your coat or rain slicker!
Refer to above image, strap length is adjusted for wearing crossbody. For hands free, adjust the strap so the bag rests at about your waist. We have found if you wear it too low you’ll need a hand to control its bouncing off your hip (unless you’re taking a slow stroll). Also, for free arm movement, position the bag slightly to your front!
Refer to above image, strap length is adjusted for wearing crossbody. For hands free, adjust the strap so the bag rests at about your waist. We have found if you wear it too low you’ll need a hand to control its bouncing off your hip (unless you’re taking a slow stroll). Also, for free arm movement, position the bag slightly to your front!
Refer to above image, a big thanks to one of our customers for sending us this photo! It's our blue phone bag set up as a "Mini-backpack"! They attached two straps to one bag, very creative! Thanks again for sharing!
Have a wonderful day!
Paul Freeman