How Walking Can Help You to Feel More Grounded

According to statistics, 57 million use social media each day. But when you’re scrolling mindlessly through TikTok, finding a sense of grounding is no mean feat. With so many wellness trends and mental health strategies being touted as the latest big thing, one is often overlooked: walking. Walking carries huge benefits for the mind and body - and can go a long way in helping you feel grounded. If you’re not convinced, here’s the science behind it.

What Are the Psychological Benefits of Walking?

Recent studies have highlighted the impact walking can have on mental health issues like anxiety and depression.  As well as being good for our physical health, walking acts as a form of moving meditation, promoting mindfulness and helping lower stress levels.

How Does Walking Help Us Feel Grounded?

The concept of "grounding" or "earthing" comes from the belief that direct physical contact with the earth's surface can bring us numerous health benefits. Walking outdoors, particularly in green spaces, not only strengthens our connection to the environment but also enhances our mood and overall sense of well-being.

If that wasn’t enough, research from the University of East Anglia found that exposure to green space reduces the risk of type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure, too!

What Are Some of the Other Benefits of Walking?

Helps you think more clearly

As well as helping you get physically fitter, walking encourages reflection and self-discovery - providing time for you to think without modern distractions like phones. The act of walking, especially alone, can lead to clearer thinking and a greater appreciation for the present moment, fostering a deep sense of grounding.

It’s a social activity

Walking with friends or joining a walking group can amplify these benefits through social interaction. The camaraderie built on shared walks fosters a sense of community and support which is vital for mental health.

How to Start Walking More

If you want to start incorporating more walking into your routine, it can be hard to know where to start. Some ways you can start walking more include:

• Create a new routine: Incorporating more walking into your daily routine is an achievable goal. By simply taking the stairs, taking short walking breaks or walking to the shop rather than driving, you’ll be surprised how many steps you can do in a day.
• Make it fun: If you’re not loving your walking routine, why don’t you make it more fun? One way to do this is with a walking holiday. If you choose a walking holiday, Italy is one of the best places to go due to the idyllic setting and challenging terrain.

Final Thoughts: How Walking Can Help You to Feel More Grounded

Walking isn’t just good physical exercise - it’s essential for your mental health. Its simplicity, coupled with the vast array of benefits, makes walking an invaluable practice for those seeking to feel more grounded in the fast-paced world we live in.

What about you, do you like walking holidays? Feel free to share any tips & advice below!

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ABOUTME

We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.