by Robin Moynihan

Created on: February 07, 2009   Last Updated: February 20, 2009

You can go for a drive, be driven to succeed, or be driven to distraction, but if what you want is better health than you need to look at walking instead of driving. There have been numerous studies done on the benefits of walking and they all tout multiple reductions in degenerative diseases. Among the ones listed are less cancers, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, fewer colds and it slows the aging process in those people that walk regularly. There are even studies showing that downhill walking lowers blood sugar and LDL cholesterol while walking uphill walking reduces the bad blood fats called triglycerides.

When was the last time you took a walk? We are not talking about the harried sprint to catch the train, or the stressful stroll up and down the grocery isle looking for bargains. No, we're talking about a real walk outside in the fresh air. Do you remember how peaceful it felt to be alone with yourself, mulling over the many thoughts that surfaced as you enjoyed a comfortable pace? If you had a companion with you didn't you feel a special bond develope? Most have had a least one such walk in there life. If you are one of the few who haven't experienced this physical and mental holiday isn't it time you indulged yourself?

Physical and mental healths are not the only ones affected by walking instead of driving. By leaving footprints in the sand you reduce the carbon footprints on the earth; something to think about as earth health is coming to the fore more acutely. Even if you need to start slow, start now to establish this positive habit. Just putting on your walking shoes, heading out the door, and walking for 5 minutes is a good start. After a week move the time up to 10 minutes; 15 the week after that and before you know it you will be walking to the library to pick up a good book then stopping at the coffee shop for a sip or two before heading home.

The benefits are many and profound in every sense, but if you would still rather take the car perhaps a bribe will work better in your case. When you walk instead of driving put the money you save on gas into a slush fund, and then treat yourself to a dinner out, or perhaps brunch with a friend. Regardless if you enjoy walking in the elements or need a little push, be it bribery, or a walking companion, you will hopefully find that you take the car less and less and get back to a simpler, more relaxed way of life.

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