Walking Families

Summertime!

For me, this means way more family time.  I hope the longer days mean that you can carve out more time with friends and family members of all stripes.

Kaiser, my health provider, sent out this message about walking:

"Walk to boost your mood

Walking feels good, and it can actually help you forget your worries and lift your mood. The effects are not purely psychological: Scientific research proves that walking creates physical changes that affect mental status.

* Natural high. Walking releases endorphins — the brain chemicals that relieve pain and control stress.
* Internal reward. The adrenal glands secrete norepinephrine — a hormone that gives the body energy in stressful situations. It’s responsible for the “fight or flight” response. During a walk, norepinephrine sharpens the senses and induces pleasure, rewarding the brain for walking.

Your commitment to consistent walking can help chase your blues away! Fitting a walk into your schedule does not require 30 consecutive minutes. Squeeze in two or three shorter walks — around the office, to the post office, or in the neighborhood with your kids. You’ll feel better physically and mentally if you do."

Pairing walking with a friend or family members doubles the good feelings.  The oxytocin from social support and endorphins are a feel-good cocktail without the hangover.  And it's free!  In this economy, we all benefit from natural highs.  If you can swing it, walking in nature has a special effect as well.

How do you get your endorphin rush - walking, dancing, laughing with an old friend?  Whatever your endorphin-laced activity of choice,  may your summer be bright and full.