Are You Walking the Wrong Way?

Hiya! Glad you could click by today. Did you walk here? If you did, you'll be ready for a good steaming mug of Arabica coffee and a virtual treat, right? Even if you didn't walk, I'm sure you're ready for a break so dig in. On the subject of walking, here are some thoughts from Dr. Weil...

Walking is an ideal way to get daily exercise - it strengthens almost every major organ in the body, promotes optimal bone density, and boosts the immune system. But have you considered how to best put one foot in front of the other? Your walking habits can have an impact on how much benefit you get from each outing. Keep the following in mind when walking:

1. Start with good footwear. Make sure what you are wearing is comfortable and not going to cause you cut your walk short.
2. Walk with your head erect. Look ahead and train your sight 10 to 20 feet ahead of you. If you need to check the ground to avoid obstacles, lower your eyes, not your head, and try not to thrust your trunk forward or let your arms dangle listlessly at your sides.
3. Keep your back straight. Stretch your spine so your shoulders are level and square, and tuck your buttocks in.
4. Bend your arms. Flex your elbows at close to 90-degree angles and let your arms swing at waist level.
5. Take shorter, measured steps, with your feet striking the ground with the heel and pushing off with the toes. A too-long stride can throw you off balance. 

When you get where you’re going after your walk remember the three old sayings:

Keep your shoulder to the wheel, your nose to the grindstone and your ear to the ground. Now try to work in that position. Wow...and people think yoga is tough!

See ya, eh!

Bob