Importance of Fall Walks
10/11/2023
Importance of Fall Walks
While some may argue that the end of summer signals the end of outdoor activities, there are many health benefits to continuing outdoor walks in the fall. Read on for the many health benefits walking in the fall can provide!
Milder Temperatures
Summer walks can come with some high temperatures, making it necessary to keep hydrated. Cooler temperatures in the fall, however, mean you will sweat less, be exposed to lower UV indexes, and decrease your risk of heat stroke. Lessening these risk factors also lessens the risk of dehydration as a byproduct.
It is still necessary, no matter how cool the temperatures are, to carry the appropriate amount of water with you when doing any outdoor activity. If you go on a fall walk, perhaps bring your smaller bottle of water, and keep an extra in the car for when you are done!
Relieve Stress
The shift from summer vacations and long days in the sun can induce stress, especially as we consider the bustle of the impending holiday season! Walking naturally releases chemicals in your brain to help relieve stress and can be an excellent way to keep your hormones in balance, as well.
Not only does walking help keep your body in balance, but stress relief can also come in the form of a quiet moment to yourself. Decreased crowds on walking trails, beautiful falls views, and seasonal animal sightings all combine to make walking an important stress relieving fall activity.
Vitamin D
In the fall it is harder to get your daily dose of Vitamin D. Studies show that Vitamin D helps build bones, reduce cancer cell growth, help control infections, and can reduce inflammation.
It may seem counterintuitive to go out on a cloudy fall day, but you can still get plenty of Vitamin D! Those important full-spectrum rays still exist behind the clouds (https://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/15/science/15qna.html). This is also why it’s important to remember your sunscreen, even if you don’t see any sun!
Good for Your Eyes
Going on a walk and unplugging is one of the best things you can do for your eyes. Many of us work on computers all day, and it can lead to eye fatigue and sometimes even headaches. A great way to help overstimulated eyes is to go on a walk and look at the beautiful fall landscape. Your eyes will naturally relax and widen their focus to your surroundings. Furthermore, reduced sunlight in the fall will provide an easier environment for your eyes.
Nature walks can be an important part of your fall routine as they provide many physical and mental health benefits. Where is your favorite spot for a nature walk?