Research has shown that walking promotes the release of brain chemicals called endorphins that stimulate relaxation and improve our mood. Walking does not have to be done at a fast pace to have stress-relieving benefits. Even a stroll at a comfortable pace promotes relaxation, studies indicate
Other ways walking can relieve stress:
1. Take a Break: Put physical and mental distance between you and the stress-causing environment. Get up and take a 20-minute walking break.
2. Loosen Up: Many people carry stress by tensing their muscles. By getting into your correct walking posture and form, you un-knot those muscles and put them to work. For further relaxation of your shoulder and neck, try doing some shoulder rolls forward and back while you're walking, and then let your arms swing freely.
3. Get Out of Your Head: Take a break from your internal worries. Observe the environment around you; enjoy the trees, flowers, birds, gardens, sky, or window shop strolling past storefronts or in the mall.
4. Reconnect With Your Physical Body: Think about from head to toe how your body is working to carry you along. You may want to practice breathing techniques. For example, you can match your steps to your breath (inhale for 4 steps, exhale for 4 steps, or whatever pattern works best for you).