We want you to walk more! Walking during the summer months is a great way to see nature and improve mental and physical well-being, so the John Clare Countryside team at PECT are planning walks throughout the summer as an easy way for you to get involved. It is a low-impact activity that is great for people from all ‘walks’ of life to spend more time in nature and help the environment. But why should you walk more? Here are PECT’s 5 top reasons to spend more time walking this summer:
1. It’s a great form of exercise
Do you fancy getting your 60 minutes of movement each day but just can’t seem to find the time? Why don’t you swap your mode of transport from wheels to walks! Not only does this boost vitamin D levels and increase your step count, but you have the choice of a restorative stroll or an uphill sweaty workout.
2. It’s wonderful for your creativity…
John Clare was an English poet, born in Helpston in 1793 and he became known for his celebrations of the English countryside. His love for poetry came from his admiration of nature and rural life. Other famous poets such as William Wordsworth also spent much of their life on foot, inspiring their work. So why not walk in the footsteps of these poets to spark creativity?
3. An excuse to get a coffee or an ice cream.
Who doesn’t love a coffee to-go or an ice-cream date with a friend? This sociable activity is a great way to catch up whilst getting some fresh air. It’s a cheap and cheerful way to stimulate conversation or listen to music in the spring and summer months.
4. It’s rejuvenating…
The beauty of the countryside can be taken for granted a lot of the time. Our busy lives can be hectic and noisy with all the traffic and telephone calls. It can be hard to even hear ourselves think sometimes. Find the treasured tranquillity between the trees and use this time to meditate in a form that suits you.
5. Let’s help the planet!
Not only does it save money on petrol (an important factor these days!) but it also reduces air and noise pollution and no doubt you’ll feel happier knowing you’re chipping in to save the planet by reducing your carbon footprint.
Please keep an eye out for our well-being walks that the JCC team are hosting each month on the PECT website here. Any questions or queries regarding these walks, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected] for more information.
This blog post was submitted by Olivia Horne who works on the John Clare Countryside Project. Visit https://johnclarecountryside.co.uk/ to find out more.