Brrr it's Cold Out There
In some regions across the country winter has hit hard with ice storms, snow, and freezing temperatures. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we have been experiencing cold spells that make the idea of walking outside less appealing. I must confess that there have been several mornings when I have been tempted to not go out for my daily walk. But there are benefits from walking in the cold that make it worth the effort.
Get invigorated. According to Alan Mikesky, PhD, director of the human performance and biomechanics laboratory at Indiana University-Purdue University in Indianapolis, walking in the winter gives you a great change of pace. Cold air can reduce stress and clear your mind. It also helps you burn more calories and increases your energy for hours afterward.
Explore the season. Remember that walking in winter is a way to enjoy a new world. The icy tree branches, soft snow covered bushes, and dried flora are found only during winter. Taking photos of these changes can encourage you to continue winter walking.
Use the Rule of 5. If after five minutes you still do not want to walk outside, you can return. For most of us though, once we are out and get active it is easier to continue.
Look for alternatives. If the weather is just too difficult, go to a gym or consider mall walking. A quick drive to a mall close to you is a good place to walk. I searched online for "mall walking" and found that AARP has a list by city of the malls open early for walkers! Try searching for your community online and see what you can find. Take a look at this quick video for some mall walking tips! Just a note, it isn't only for older folks - we can all benefit from a walk in the mall especially when it is cold.
In addition to making it a safe, warm, level walking place, mall walking is a good Camera Walking experience. Bring your smartphone or a small camera and see what you can find in the many shop windows, architecture, and people you encounter along the way. It can help make your walk more interesting with a camera.
Find ways to workout at home. But what if you are stuck at home? When the conditions just aren't safe for venturing out, you can still find ways to fit in some exercise. Walk in place, do strength exercises, or, if you live in a building with several floors, take the stairs. I happen to live in an older building that was once a high school, so walking the halls and using the stairs gives me a good workout. If all else fails, use the time to process some of your photos from earlier walks, but remember to take breaks to move around. Your body will appreciate it.
Enjoy the winter weather by grabbing your camera and going out for walk. You will reap the benefits of cold weather and beautiful scenery. We love to hear from you, so comment below, post on our Facebook page, or send us an email.
