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( Family Features ) A walk is not just good for your body , it ’ s also good for your soul . Physical activity , like walking , is one of the best ways to reduce stress and boost your mood . However , reports show walking rates are declining steadily in the United States .
On average , 1 out of every 4 U . S . adults sits for longer than eight hours each day , per research from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention , which can have negative consequences on physical and mental health . Regular exercise improves mood , boosts energy and can even help you sleep better . Staying active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy .
Consider this advice from the American Heart Association , which has worked for decades to promote policies and strategies that make it easier for communities to get and stay active . One example is National Walking Day , established by the organization to encourage people to move more throughout the day so they can feel , think , sleep and live better .
Indeed , adding more movement can benefit your body and mind in numerous ways , such as :
Lowering disease risk .
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Getting the recommended amount of physical activity ( at least 150 minutes of moderate , 75 minutes of
vigorous or a combination of those activities per week ) is linked to lower
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risk of diseases , stronger bones and muscles , improved mental health and cognitive function and
lower risk of depression , according to the U . S Department of Health and
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Human Services .
Increasing sunlight exposure . Outdoor exercise is an easy way to get moving and take in the sunlight , which can improve mood , boost immunity and help you get some vitamin D . Spending time outdoors is a nocost option and has been shown to reduce stress , promote a sense of belonging and improve mood .
Improving cognitive and mental function . Physical activity keeps your mind sharp now and later . Studies show higher fitness levels are linked to better attention , learning , working memory and problem solving . What ’ s more , a study published in the “ British Journal of Sports Medicine ” shows people who get the recommended amount of physical activity are less likely to develop depression .
Living longer . Healthy life expectancy can be positively impacted by increasing activity . According to research published in the “ American Journal of Epidemiology ,” swapping just 30 minutes of sitting with low-intensity physical activity reduced risk of death by 17 %.
Get moving to reduce your stress and step into better health . Learn more at heart . org / movemore .
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