Regular blog readers will know that we are big fans of a good walk – especially if it means getting out and about to explore the beautiful region that we’re lucky enough to live and work in.

A good walk has loads of health benefits, both physical and mental. And many of our walk readers say that they feel heaps better after a walk in the hills or on the beaches of Snowdonia. But, just why is walking in Snowdonia good for you? Read on for all the health benefits of a nice long stroll….

1: Walking is the ultimate mood booster

Brisk walking is highly effective in releasing feel-good endorphins while reducing stress and anxiety. Furthermore, research shows that walking improves sleep which translates to better moods and the overall sense of well-being. In fact, as an activity that could be done all year around, it is the perfect way to beat the gloomy autumn and winter blues.

2: Walking improves brain power

Walking can help improve your memory and brain function, possibly reducing your dependency on easy-to-lose sticky notes and app reminders (on phones that seem to run out of battery at the worst possible times)! When you walk, your heart rate increases, pumping more oxygen to the brain. This then releases hormones that nourish the growth of brain cells and facilitates information processing.

3: Walking can enhance your social life … in the real world

Forget Twitter or Facebook, walking can help you meet people and maintain friendships and relationships in real life. Walking has been said to reduce inhibitions, enabling you to interact better with those around you.

4: Walking boosts confidence and self belief

If you are someone who struggles with keeping to a fitness routine, walking can help you overcome this. Experts believe that walking has the highest compliance rate of any exercise plan. People who begin a walking routine tend to stick with it as they can start seeing the results of their efforts fairly quickly. Being able to stick to a routine like this will boost your confidence and help you focus on setting and achieving bigger goals in the future.

5: Walking really is good for the body and soul

Walking can literally be your life saver, in both the physical and emotional sense. According to the NHS, walking could save 37,000 lives per year. The British Heart Foundation states that brisk walking can help to keep your heart strong by strengthening your cardiovascular fitness and reducing your risk of developing heart disease and high blood pressure in the long-term.

Plus, you would be less likely to worry about the mundane challenges of day-to-day life when surrounded by the vast and majestic beauty of the world.

*Courtesy of HF Holidays – September 2016