It's the season where many of us get and
give gifts so I today I am writing about
three gifts that walking has bestowed upon me.
The first is the obvious one - improved
physical fitness. From the waist down I actually have firm muscles and decent
bone density. Overall I seem to be in
better shape (more endurance, more flexibility) than others my age who don't
walk or do some other regular exercise. And that's important in maintaining a
good quality of life over the long haul.
The second gift is better mental health.
The research consistently shows that exercise helps stave off things like
dementia and anxiety. And I know from
repeated experience that I feel both
more relaxed and sharper after our walks - even when it is a struggle to get
out there. Part of it is the exercise and part is the stimulating and
comforting interaction with my walking buddies.
The last gift is spiritual growth - walking
is a time to reflect on and share life's joys and sorrows and, in doing so,
work through issues, improve my inner peace and go forth stronger.
So thanks walking - and thanks to all my
wonderful Toronto Power Walkers.
And, in the spirit of giving, let me share
the results of a comparison of various running shoes that appeared recently in
the Globe and Mail - the top rated shoe was one of the least expensive - the
Saucony Cohesion!
