Creating a sustainable exercise program supports your overall wellness goals and affirms an expression of love for yourself.
If you’ve been reading my blog posts over the last few years, you know that power walking in nature is my spiritual supplement and ranks at the top of my favorite fitness tools. Several followers have asked, “T. K., I enjoy walking, too, but what do you do when the weather prevents you from venturing outdoors?”
I live in the Midwest, and sometimes winter can be brutal. Freezing temperatures with below-zero wind chill factors are a strong indication that you really shouldn’t be outside for extended periods of time. So what do you do? You take your walking tour indoors!
Walking is an enjoyable and exhilarating way to build strength and endurance without being bound to a rigid exercise regimen.
And when you’re walking indoors, you don’t have to be meticulous about how you look, and you don’t need to protect yourself from the elements. Studies have shown that if you walk at a brisk pace, you can get an excellent cardio workout. This winter, I decided to try something different, since I missed my al fresco hiking adventures. I came across a high-energy YouTube video called “Walk The Fat Off In 20 Minutes — High Energy Walking Workout” with Brian Syuki, the founder of Focus Fitness. When weather permits, I’m poised to pump a path for 40-45 minutes under the trees and lose myself in the experience. No sweat! But this video adds an extra dimension — some welcomed upper-bodywork, as well.
This week may be the perfect time for a walking video.
Engage yourself first thing in the morning, or if you’re a beginner, walk for 10 minutes for a few days then build up to the duration of the entire routine. Basically, you’re walking in place and adding the upper body work. I promise you will be working every muscle group and you’ll feel so good about yourself. The invigorating choice of music syncs well with the creative movements Syuki employs every 30 seconds. If you don’t like the music, you can mute and play your favorite tunes, while keeping pace with the action on the screen. By the way, he has more walking videos — find the one that works best for you.
“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.” — John Burroughs
But this post is about walking in nature, so we’re not done yet. Here’s how I add the “natural” setting: Have the YouTube walking video propped up at eye level and playing on your smart phone so you can follow along easily. On your TV screen, select a YouTube nature scene with audio. You can pick the landscape and sound effects to match your mood. For example, select a meadow of spring flowers and chirping birds, a dramatic waterfall in the rainforest, a vibrant display of fall colors, a picturesque mountain range, or a highway overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Genius! The time passes quickly because the beauty that awaits you arouses your senses and engages your creative juices. The closest thing to the real thing.
I encourage you to be deliberate about your wellness intentions. A 20-minute stroll in the great indoors can work wonders for your body, mind and spirit. Don’t allow heavy downpours, blizzards, and scorching temperatures to prevent you from taking a hike again.
Consider This
Feeling out of sorts? Mary Davis, chief executive officer of Special Olympics International said, “A walk in nature walks the soul back home.”
Four Steps to Nourish, Transform and Flourish
• Set a loving intention to walk every day, indoors or outdoors.
• Begin with a ten-minute tour, then build up to a half hour or more.
• How will adding walking to your weekly fitness routine help support your wellness goals and increase your energy level?
• Close your eyes and visualize how this lifestyle change can prepare you for your amazing second half.
Need help establishing a personal fitness routine?
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In love, peace and health--
Your feminine glow guide,
T. Kari Mitchell, M.Ed.
Motivational Speaker
Certified Holistic Health Coach
Lifestyle120.com
When your spirit is nourished, your inner light produces an outer glow reflecting your beauty and truth.