Walking

There are benefits to strength training and cardiovascular exercise, particularly after the age of 40. However, never underestimate the power of walking. It is a really good form of exercise and it is something that most people have access to. Not only does it improve your overall health if you walk regularly, it also has great benefits for your mental health because you are outside and you can take notice of your surroundings. Even if you live in a city, you can still notice things in your environment as you walk along and it can help you to stay in the moment. When I am feeling a strong negative emotion - be it sadness, frustration, anger, jealousy - I try and take myself out for a walk as soon as possible. Sometimes it can only be for ten minutes as I need to do work or prepare dinner for the family. However, even after ten minutes I feel the benefits and I have a different perspective on the issue upon my return. With sadness, it might not go away but it definitely eases it and I find it easier to accept. Making time to walk as part of your exercise routine or as your weekly exercise will help you physically and mentally and it may help you to focus your mind on when you have bigger life questions to answer.