‘It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it.’

John Burroughs, “Winter Sunshine”

The Festival of Winter Walks – run by the Ramblers - has been running for over 25 years and is an opportunity to get more people walking and exploring Britain’s wintry landscapes. This year’s festival will run from Saturday 17 December 2016 to Sunday 8 January 2017 and includes group walks, health walks and routes.

Not surprisingly perhaps – given CareShield’s focus on wellbeing and caring, we thought we’d have a quick look at the Health Benefits of Walking – and post poems or winter quotes and beautiful images for the length of this Festival.  After all, it’s simple, free and one of the easiest ways to get more active, lose weight and become healthier!

It's an underrated form of exercise, but walking is ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels who want to be more active. Regular walking has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as:

• heart disease
• type 2 diabetes
• asthma
• stroke
• and some cancers

   

Make it a habit
The easiest way to walk more is to make walking a habit. Think of ways to include walking into your daily routine. Examples include: 

• walking part of your journey to work
• walking to the shops
• using the stairs instead of the lift
• leaving the car behind for short journeys
• walking the kids to school
• doing a regular walk with a friend
• going for a stroll with family or friends after dinner

Join a walking group – like the Ramblers!

Walking in a group is a great way to start walking, make new friends and stay motivated.   For more information on the Festival of Winter Walks – and the Ramblers – visit: http://www.ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/festival-of-winter-walks-2016.aspx