Angry drivers, clogged intersections and cars stretching for block after block is no way to start your day. It’s even more frustrating in the afternoon, after you’ve put in a long day at the office. If you’re tired of traffic logistics around Chicago, trade in your wheels for some power walking shoes. Whether you live in West Loop or want a new place in River North, there are some major benefits to walking to work.
Builds Your Body
Walking raises your heart rate and improves circulation. It also strengthens the heart and lowers your blood pressure, all of which reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition, while sitting in traffic fuming at the gridlock doesn’t use muscle power, walking builds stronger muscles.
If you are genetically predisposed to obesity, you may have thought there’s nothing you can do about it. However, a 2012 Harvard study showed that a brisk, 60-minute walk a day cuts that risk in half. Walking to and/or from work will easily allow you to meet that goal. That’s a big step toward a longer, happier life.
Discovering New Places
All too often, people distract themselves during their work commutes. It’s boring, you’re likely alone and scrolling through your phone is an easy way to pass the time. Another benefit of walking to work is that you’re more aware of your surroundings. It’s not just sitting day after day, looking at memes or ads. You interact with the city and breathe new life in.
Waiting for a crosswalk light or striding down a long stretch of sidewalk gives you the chance to look around you. This allows you to discover a side of your area you’ve never seen before. Maybe there’s a charming bistro on the corner, or a shop that sells handmade furniture? Explore your neighborhood and see what you find.
Improves Mental Well-Being
You don’t have to do cardio five days a week to be healthier. Nearly any physical activity creates chemical changes in the brain that give you a better mood. A positive mood increases motivation and self-esteem, and improves energy levels. Walking also decreases stress, something city dwellers can experience a lot.
Trying to figure out the next great ad campaign for a project? Walking makes concentrating easier because there are fewer distractions. With no noisy phones or people slamming on their horns behind you, you have more time to think. Strolling through a park is definitely more relaxing than an office environment, so take advantage of that time to organize your thoughts.
Get some fresh air and open your eyes to everything Chicago has to offer. Let HotSpot Rentals help you find your dream apartment to start your morning walks on the right foot.
