Walk This May

Hey everyone.

Just in case you didn’t know, May is National Walking Month. I know, I know, we’re a couple of weeks into the month already but who knew that walking has so many great health benefits?!

Whenever you can go for a walk throughout the month (and hopefully after), it’s never too late to slot it into your daily routine.

The best part is that walking costs nothing, it’s free! Not that you need me to tell you that – hehe.

So, we’ve been quarantined for weeks and lots of people haven’t left the house, but if going out for a walk isn’t going to put you at risk (health wise), it’s a great way to stay active and look after your mental wellbeing.

In the earlier days of quarantine, my children and I went out walking along a local canal. It was a good day for a scavenger hunt activity and I got in some much needed exercise. The weather has been so good to us so there’s been no excuse really.

We’ve also been walking around the block and done some rainbow spotting (pictures for the NHS and key workers). I incorporated this into the maths session and had the kids counting as we walked.

The recommended average is walking or exercising for at least 30 minutes a day. Have you managed that? I can honestly say that I haven’t felt like going out to walk every day but I have made it a priority of mine to stay active, even more so than before the lockdown. How does that make sense? I know right! I suppose I’ve just been more aware of taking care of myself emotionally, physically and mentally since there have been more restrictions than we’re generally used to.

Are you into photography? I’m no professional but I do love nature so I’ve enjoyed taking some snaps of the outdoors.

Since the lockdown, I’ve definitely done more walking and physical exercise than I normally would and having to homeschool means that my schedule is a lot more intense, so having an outlet is key.

Whether you’re learning a new dance routine from a YouTube workout video, P.E. with Joe Wicks or doing a yoga video with the kids, that’s just fine, and if you can get out and about, just remember to stay safe, keeping at least 2 metres away from others (social distancing).

One of the things that I didn’t mention in my previous blog is that physical exercise is a great motivator if you’re working from home. Have you ever been out for a jog in the morning? Now, I’m not a morning person naturally but I do appreciate some light exercise to get my day started, even if I’m stretching. If going for a walk after work is better for you, then do that.

Wherever your walking adventure takes you, don’t forget to stay safe and wash your hands when you get back home.

Thanks for reading and have a lovely weekend.

SBS