The Wonders of “Happy Walks”: A Step-by-Step Guide to Feeling Awesome 🚶🏻‍♂️

Let’s talk about something revolutionary, yet as simple as putting one foot in front of the other—twice a day, for 30 minutes. Welcome to the world of “Happy Walks,” my personal prescription for pretty much everything life throws at you!!!

The Science of Strolling
First off, the science behind why taking these dual daily promenades is so crucial isn’t just compelling; it’s downright persuasive. Imagine your body as this high-tech, bio-engineered suit (Iron Man vibes, anyone?), where every part, from the screws in the toes to the wiring in the brain, needs regular tuning. Walking does just that. It’s not just a physical activity; it’s your personal maintenance schedule to keep the suit running smoothly.

The Body Bonuses
On the physical side, walking is like hitting the refresh button. It boosts your heart health, keeps those pesky calories in check (because who doesn’t love a tasty treat… or slice of pizza 😅), and strengthens your muscles. But the real magic happens in the less talked-about benefits. Did you know regular walking can actually sharpen your brain? Yep, those daily jaunts are like Sudoku for your noggin, improving memory, attention, and even creativity. So, if you ever see me talking to myself during my walks, I’m not crazy; I’m just brainstorming next-level ideas 🤷🏻‍♂️

The Mind Makeover
Mentally and emotionally, “Happy Walks” are where it’s at. They’re my go-to strategy for clearing the cobwebs and lifting the fog on a gloomy day. There’s a lots of research supporting this. According to Rob Dial, the science-based author of Level Up and host of the Mindset Mentor podcast (highly recommends walking), taking action (like walking) can shift your brain into the mindset you’re aiming for. Feeling like a sloth?—A brisk walk tricks your brain into thinking, “Hey, we’re actually an energetic gazelles right now!”

The Harvard Happiness Connection
Enter Shawn Achor, the brilliant mind behind The Happiness Advantage, who conducted extensive research on happiness at Harvard University. Achor champions the two-walks-a-day regimen, linking it to significant boosts in happiness and overall mental health. I had the privilege of witnessing his genius live as the keynote speaker at a Keller Williams Conference af few years ago, where his insights into happiness and its triggers left an indelible mark on my perspective.

This article itself is inspired by Achor’s groundbreaking work… and what ensured a daily habit. His book not only delves into the science behind happiness but also offers practical steps to harness it in our daily lives. For those looking to explore his teachings further, The Happiness Advantage can be enjoyed while embarking on your “Happy Walks,” available on Audible for listening or Amazon for reading. It’s a perfect companion to transform your walks into a journey towards a happier self.

In Step with Steve Jobs
Talking about walking and brilliance, did you know that Steve Jobs, the legendary co-founder of Apple, was a big fan of walking meetings? Yes, many of Apple’s most brilliant ideas were birthed while Jobs and his colleagues were on the move. He believed that walking fostered creativity and helped to solve problems. It’s fascinating to think that some of the most innovative products that changed the world could have been conceived during a stroll. This just goes to show that “Happy Walks” aren’t just good for your health; they could also be the birthplace of your next Billion Dollar Idea 💡

My Personal Testimony: Walking the Walk
Now, let’s get personal. My journey with “Happy Walks” started not as an epiphany but as a desperate attempt to escape the gravitational pull of my couch… and sometimes those addictive Housewives. And guess what? —it worked. I mean I still LOVE ME some a little Erika Jayne but now in moderation. These walks have become my clarity compass and my slump-buster. There’s something about being in motion, surrounded by the world in its unfiltered form, that reboots my system. It’s my meditation, my therapy, and my energy drink, all rolled into one. Another power tip — I sometimes take a quick 5 min stroll right before an important meeting or phone call for the reset effect.

The Routine That Rocks
Here’s the deal: twice a day, I hit the pavement or the park. Morning walks pump me up for the day ahead, like a natural espresso shot but without the jittery side effects. Evening walks are my wind-down ritual, helping me to process the day’s events and plan for tomorrow. And on those walks, I’ve solved problems that seemed insurmountable from the confines of my home office. (I will admit this also happens in my shower 🤷🏻‍♂️)… Should someone create a Walking Shower 🤔

So, Why Aren’t You Walking Yet?
Now, if you’re sitting there thinking, “But I don’t have time,” or “Walking is so boring,” hear me out. We’re talking about 1 hour out of 24. Catch-up Phone Calls, audiobooks, podcasts, or your favorite tunes can turn walking into the most entertaining part of your day. And if you’re worried about boredom, let me tell you, the world is far more interesting at 3 mph. You’ll notice things you’ve never seen before, meet people you wouldn’t otherwise meet, and maybe even find a new favorite spot in your neighborhood.

The Final Step
So, here’s my closing argument: Just take two walks a day and call me in the morning. 🍎

It’s a prescription without the pharmacy, a therapy session without the couch, and an energy boost without the caffeine. Plus, it’s free, and the side effects include feeling awesome, looking fabulous, and possibly developing a mild obsession with weather apps.

Remember, it’s not about the destination… so lace-up, step out, and let the world be your treadmill. Who knows? You might just find yourself walking your way to happiness, one “Happy Walk” at a time. And if all else fails, at least you’ll have a great excuse to buy those fancy walking shoes you’ve been eyeing. (Mine are Hokas!)

Happy walking 🐾