WALKING Outside

for a Holistic Well-Being Boost

By Elizabeth Hickcox

Optimal health can be achieved by incorporating regular exercise into our daily lives, and walking outside offers a delightful array of advantages. In today's fast-paced world, taking a leisurely outdoor stroll provides a gentle, accessible way to enhance our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Walking outdoors is a fantastic method to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight, potentially burning around 150 calories in a 30-minute walk, depending on speed and intensity. Consistently engaging in outdoor walks can contribute to lower blood pressure, reduced heart disease risk, and improved cardiovascular health, all while providing an enjoyable experience.

Outdoor walking, particularly on uneven surfaces, activates different muscle groups, refines balance and coordination, and helps preserve bone density, thus decreasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Moreover, sunlight exposure during outdoor walks aids in vitamin D production and immune health, possibly enhancing natural killer cell activity, essential for defending against viruses and cancer cells.

Incorporating outdoor walking into your daily routine can be effortless and enjoyable for the entire family, including your children. Start with a morning or evening stroll around your neighborhood or a nearby park to connect with nature and get your body moving. Encourage your kids to join you, making it a fun bonding experience while promoting a healthy lifestyle from a young age. Opt to walk to close destinations instead of driving, teaching your children the benefits of eco-friendly and health-conscious choices.

Strengthen your social bonds by joining a walking group or attending community walking events with your family, transforming exercise into a fun, collective experience. Involving your children in these activities can help them develop social skills, make new friends, and foster a sense of community. Finally, explore local trails and nature reserves together to experience diverse terrains and sceneries, keeping your walks captivating and revitalizing for everyone involved.

So, put on your walking shoes, gather your family, and step outside to let the beauty of the outdoors lead you all toward improved health and well-being. By involving your children in outdoor walking activities, you create opportunities for lasting memories, promote a love for nature, and lay the foundation for a healthy, active lifestyle that they can carry into adulthood. n

By Elizabeth Hickcox

As summer sun shines bright and the waves beckon, it's the perfect time to plan a day trip to the beach with your kids. Ensure a stressfree and delightful experience for everyone by following these simple tips and tricks.

Choose the Right Beach

Opt for a family-friendly beach with clean, shallow waters, lifeguards on duty, and a nearby playground or designated play area. This will keep your kids entertained and safe throughout the day.

Pack Smart

Create a beach-essentials checklist to guarantee you pack everything needed. Include sunscreen, hats, UV-protective clothing, towels, beach toys, an umbrella or sunshade, a portable cooler with snacks and drinks, and a change of clothes for each child. Don't forget a waterproof bag for your phone, wallet, and keys.

Plan the Perfect Timing

Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to dodge the hottest and most crowded hours. This also helps secure the best parking spots and prime beach locations.

Apply Sunscreen Before Leaving Home

Apply broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on your children 20 to 30 minutes before departure. This ensures the sunscreen is fully absorbed and active upon arrival.