Why Im Taking a Walk Every Day Marla Gottschalk

Why Im Taking a Walk Every Day Marla Gottschalk Photo by Liu Jiao on Unsplash Authors Note: This is an older post. However, I felt a re-share was in order. As spring arrives, walking may be a useful option for many of us. Please update me concerning your strategies â€" and how you are coping in comments. Does your mind feel crowded? Unsettled? Unsorted? This can become an issue. While we commit countless hours each day to absorbing ideas, facts and figures â€" I would guess that your devotion to down time â€" can only be described as paltry. Ive neglected that part of life where you find the time to reflect and process. Because of this, Im certainly less productive. Things seem to hang in my mind far too long, spinning, fermenting. Being busy is a great thing â€" overload is another. Ive recently read a fascinating post (More on the book Daily Rituals here.) about how some of the most incredible individuals of the last 400 years, spent their time. While their areas of expertise were varied (and remarkable), there was one obvious link among many of them: From Milton to Tchaikovsky, many set aside time for a daily walk. A few ventured alone. One with family. Shame on me â€" I know better. Walks rock. Here are just a few of the benefits: Digestion. Im not referring to gastronomy â€" Im referring to all of the information youve taken on-board today. Its difficult to see patterns and develop linkages when your brain isnt allowed the time to process effectively. Fresh air. I love my office, but a change of scenery does help me to feel rested and refreshed. Unfortunately, I dont have access to a beach or a handy mountain range to view, as some of my colleagues. But the breeze is just as refreshing here in the mid-west â€" the birds just as vocal. Lowered anxiety. With our busy work lives comes our unshakable friend, anxiety. Physical exercise has great way of managing this nagging work life by-product. Digital reprieve. Not sure how much time you must spend in front of a computer â€" but I do a lot of my work on-line. At times, I simply forget there is more to life than Power Point. Im going to commit 20 minutes each day to get out and walk. Whether its a stroll around your office building, a nearby park or a quick trek to grab lunch and back, I challenge you to do the same. Take a tip from Mozart and keep paper and pencil handy. Write me here and let me know what happens. Want the book? Just click on the visual. Dr. Marla Gottschalk is an Industrial/Organizational Psychologist, consultant and speaker. The Office Blend, has been recognized by Forbes as one of their “Top 100 Websites for Your Career” in both 2012 and 2013.