Get out of your room: how daily walks affect your health

Get out of the room: how daily walks affect health

Harvard scientists recommend walking at least 30 minutes a day.

The height of the coronavirus pandemic in Russia came in the spring of 2020. In many cities it was impossible to move on the street without special passes, office employees switched to a remote mode of work. Self-isolation seemed like torture at first, but gradually became a habit. Some people even now prefer to lead a “closed” lifestyle and very rarely get out of the house. But how does this affect their health? Together with psychiatrist Nadezhda Pozharova, we tell you how dangerous the lack of walks is.

Why is it important to go outside sometimes?

According to the psychologist, isolation has greatly affected the psychological state of the population. Deprivation of freedom of movement is one of the most severe punishments for a person. During the restrictions, when people did not feel free, anxiety levels increased many times.

Walking in the fresh air, on the contrary, allows you to better rest and gain strength, relax after a working day. Motor activity also helps to increase concentration. It is best to go for a walk without headphones. So we pay attention to the steps, breathing – it allows you to dive inside yourself.

If you are so tired that you want to spend time in solitude at home – do not go against your wishes. Persuade yourself to go outside is not always necessary. If the reluctance to go out is related to a certain phase in life, you can choose another type of activity at home. If we are talking about a severe psycho-emotional state, when you do not want to leave the apartment for a long time, you should consult a psychologist.

Constant presence in four walls is inextricably linked to the lack of movement. This, in turn, allows a person to form new neural connections and experience contact with the environment. When you do not interact with the outside world for a long time – constantly spending time in social networks, games – the sense of reality is lost.

How much time should you walk?

Harvard Medical School confirms the benefits of walking and recommends walking at least 30 minutes every day. Walking is suitable for everyone: it is low-intensity and has a low risk of injury. Regardless of pace, walking strengthens the cardiovascular system and reduces the risks of obesity, diabetes, depression and even erectile dysfunction.

Ready to hit the streets already? Pay attention to your shoes: they should not chafe. Walking in the fresh air is good precisely because they do not require special equipment. However, you should not overdo it either. If there are dangerous weather conditions in the city, give preference to other motor activity.