Benefits of walking in winter!
We get asked frequently, “do you run events all year” and the answer is yes we do.
There are actually some really positive health benefits from walking outside in the winter.
Your body works harder to stay warm in cold weather, which means you burn more calories while walking. There is also some evidence that suggests that exposure to cold weather can strengthen your immune system and improve your ability to fight infections. Sunlight is a natural mood booster, and even on a winter day, there is still some sunlight to be had. Getting outside and soaking up some rays can help to improve your mood and combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as the winter blues.
Winter has its own unique beauty and if we are lucky enough to get any snow it can transform the surroundings into a winter wonderland. A brisk winter walk can help you to tire yourself out so that you can fall asleep more easily and sleep more soundly. Check out this article from the British Heart Foundation: The wonders of winter walking | BHF – BHF
What’s important on Wellbeing Walks Winter Event?
It’s important to dress warmly and wear proper footwear when walking in the winter. We recommend you bundle up in layers and wear shoes or boots that have good traction and grips. We will send you a full kit list so you don’t forget anything and we always carry spares.
Our Walk Leaders will always scope out and try the route on a Winter Walk before we take you out, so we understand the terrain and manage any risks associated with snow and ice. We will ensure that our break for lunch will be somewhere warm, like a pub or café.
We generally won’t take you wild swimming in the winter months although it’s not out of the question as the benefits of cold water immersion are well known!
Check out one of our Peak District Events Hiking, Yoga and Sound Baths in the Peak District – Wellbeing Walks – Out the office into nature
The Wellbeing Walks Team