A late wake leads to a late start; everything that lies ahead is at a halt for you to set a start. Endless swirls, phone scrolls, and a dozen alarm snoozes in bed before the to-do check is no right way to kick off a fruitful day. So, put off your alarm and lace up your walking shoes to step out into the outside world. Why? This blog will explore the difference a morning walk makes in your life!
1) Dawn Steps to Happy Muscles!
Many of us find ourselves working in monotonous or even awkward positions all day, which can take a toll on our muscle health over time. Prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to muscle stiffness and discomfort, making it essential to incorporate movement into our daily routines. A morning walk, especially in the early hours, can help alleviate muscle tension and promote flexibility. Research shows that engaging in light physical activity, such as walking, can significantly enhance muscle function and reduce pain in individuals with sedentary lifestyles [1]. Plus, there's no beauty your eyes could witness beyond a stunning sunrise! This daily ritual helps you shed the burdens of yesterday and kick-starts your day with renewed energy.
2) Clear Sky, Clear Mind!
Our daily hustles seem endless. Yet, despite all the chaos, we get to decide whether to wallow in it or wear a smile and move on! Personally, I favor the smiling face over the frown; I encourage you to do the same. The stress we put ourselves through can be alleviated with quick yet refreshing solo morning walks, allowing us to inhale nature's fresh breath while releasing negative vibes. Studies indicate that regular physical activity, such as morning walks, can significantly reduce perceived stress and improve overall mental health, making it a powerful tool for maintaining emotional well-being [2].
3) It's Healing Time!
Early morning walks aren't just beneficial for the mind; they significantly boost your physical health too. These walks can improve cardiovascular health, regulate blood sugar levels, and assist in weight management. A study highlighted that consistent walking can lead to favorable changes in heart rate variability, which is a marker of cardiovascular health [4]. Unfortunately, morning walks are often underrated, leading people to laze around instead. You must take these pleasant walks while inhaling the fresh breeze to truly feel the incredible effects.
4) A Unique Goal!
Beyond understanding its health benefits, making morning walks a part of your routine is a challenge worth taking on. One way to motivate yourself is to prepare your walking outfit the night before! Setting a goal and striving to achieve it is always a great motivator; try it for your morning walks. Research supports that goal-setting can enhance adherence to physical activity routines, leading to better health outcomes [5]. Fill your ears with beats that energize your steps toward the sun's rise.
If you're not a morning person yet, I urge you to give it a try just once. Being an early bird for a day might just change your perspective!
For those curious about enhancing their health journey, consider an online doctor consultation. You can even chat with an AI doctor or talk to a doctor online for personalized advice. With the convenience of an online AI doctor, getting guidance has never been easier!
References:
- Sujin Lee, Teri Kim, Minjung Woo. Eight-week stress management exercise program improves mental health and autonomic nervous system of adults exposed to chronic stress.. PubMed. 2024.
- Julia Lortz, Tienush Rassaf, Christoph Jansen, Ramtin Knuschke, Adam Schweda, Lenka Schnaubert, Christos Rammos, Juliane Köberlein-Neu, Eva-Maria Skoda, Martin Teufel, Alexander Bäuerle. A mHealth intervention to reduce perceived stress in patients with ischemic heart disease: study protocol of the randomized, controlled confirmatory intervention "mStress-IHD" trial.. PubMed. 2023.
- Maximilian E Rudlof, Boštjan Šimunić, Bianca Steuber, Till O Bartel, Ruslan Neshev, Petra Mächler, Andreas Dorr, Rainer Picha, Karin Schmid-Zalaudek, Nandu Goswami. Effects of Meditation on Cardiovascular and Muscular Responses in Patients during Cardiac Rehabilitation: A Randomized Pilot Study.. PubMed. 2022.
- Elisabeth Maria Balint, Peter Angerer, Harald Guendel, Birgitt Marten-Mittag, Marc N Jarczok. Stress Management Intervention for Leaders Increases Nighttime SDANN: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial.. PubMed. 2022.
- Violette Hoareau, Christelle Godin, Frédéric Dutheil, Marion Trousselard. The Effect of Stress Management Programs on Physiological and Psychological Components of Stress: The Influence of Baseline Physiological State.. PubMed. 2021.