Monday, July 16, 2012

Day 62-I'm walking, yes indeed...

Ever notice that in books and movies, when people are troubled, angry or have lost their way, they get out the door and walk? 

Why do you think that is? 

I like to call (in my head, of course) walking "Open Door Therapy". You open the door, take a step, repeat and boom! There's your therapy. 

Some folks get the same work done while running, some while knitting, some while burning up a pile of things. Whatever the method for catharsis, walking is the cool one that is typically featured. 


*/-/49*-3-.98+/9*-+-95869-+69/*-+9+6/9-98-+

Note:The above line is me frantically wiping coffee dripped onto my keyboard with my t-shirt tail. I was going to erase it, but then looked closer and realized that it was computer code for "oh sh*t!".


I'd like to delve a little deeper into why the rhythmic motion of our legs and feet swinging settles, organizes and expels thoughts so well. Oh, wait, I'll start that right now. Hold on, please.

From Psychology Today, February 2012:

Research suggests that walking may not make you a genius but it will improve your attention and concentration not to mention help your mood, well being, self-esteem, and even your physical health. 

Well, der. 

There's got to be more, about neural connections and dendrites and oh, yes, here's some good stuff from the Franklin Institute:

Walking is especially good for your brain, because it increases blood circulation and the oxygen and glucose that reach your brain. Walking is not strenuous, so your leg muscles don't take up extra oxygen and glucose like they do during other forms of exercise. As you walk, you effectively oxygenate your brain. Maybe this is why walking can "clear your head" and help you to think better.

Movement and exercise increase breathing and heart rate so that more blood flows to the brain, enhancing energy production and waste removal. Studies show that in response to exercise, cerebral blood vessels can grow, even in middle-aged sedentary animals.





That's what I'm talking about. 

Big hugs, 
Dani
 




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