After the excesses of Christmas, January can leave us feeling sluggish and depressed. Getting fresh air and exercise can make us feel instantly better, improving our mood and helping to burn off calories. It is not just at this time of year that walking can be of benefit to your mind and body, however, with research continually concluding that walking can relieve symptoms of low mood, anxiety and depression at any time. The effects can be even stronger when you walk in a natural environment, such as by the sea.
A brisk coastal walk is thoroughly invigorating and it is hard to feel weighed down by worries and cares when the crashing waves or items washed up by the tide are jostling for your attention. Walking by the sea releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones, leaving you feeling energised, relaxed and healthy. Walking with a friend or group can further boost the health benefits, so enlist a pal to tag along on your coastal walk or consider joining a walking group. Even if you don’t live by the sea, try to find your nearest lake or canal and organise a walking trip to feel the rejuvenating effects of being near the water.
Whether you visit the coast regularly or only occasionally, make the most of your experience by checking the tide times before you head out. There is nothing more frustrating than getting to the coast only to find that the tide is in and you can’t walk safely along the beach. Checking the tide times is also important for your own safety, as it is all too easy to get carried away enjoying your coastal walk without realising that you may risk getting cut off by an incoming tide.
