Walk the talk to improve your wellbeing

Around one in three Queensland adults are sedentary every single weekday – a habit that could be hindering your health and happiness!

While some sedentary behaviour is often unavoidable at work, physical activity doesn’t need to inhibit on your productivity.

So how do you find time to get moving at the office? The answer: take your work for a walk.

Walking meetings will not only help increase your fitness, but research shows they also boost creativity, energy, engagement and communication skills.

Cancer Council Queensland shares five reasons you should walk the talk.

1. Improved concentration: Adding a short walk to your daily routine will improve your focus and cognitive function. And the best thing is – it’s free! Improvements in concentration from exercise are often immediate and long-lasting. After a walking meeting you may find your heightened concentration continues at your desk.

2. Boosted creativity: A recent study from Stanford University found that a person’s creative output increased by an average of 60 per cent when they were walking. When we walk our hearts pump faster, circulating more blood and oxygen through our body and to our brain. This can help trigger new ideas, thoughts and feelings.

3. Enhanced wellbeing. Physical activity is key to improving your overall health and wellbeing. Not only will it help reduce your waistline, it will lower your risk of chronic disease, including some cancers. Whether a walking meeting takes 10 or 30 minutes – every step makes a difference.

4. Reduced stress. Let’s face it – work can sometimes be stressful. When there are multiple deadlines to meet, staff to manage and conflicts to resolve, it’s hard to keep a clear mind. But walking is proven to reduce stress levels and leave you feeling cool, calm and collected.

5. Better relationships. A walking meeting offers the ideal setting to connect with your peers. To walk alongside managers and colleagues is less confrontational than a traditional meeting, aiding with conversations about difficult or complex topics. It also enables colleagues to share a new activity and strengthen bonds.

Take a stand for your health and happiness with these five easy tips.

Other small changes like getting on your feet when taking a phone call, standing for a stretch every 30 minutes, or opting for a standing desk are all effective ways to help combat our sedentary lifestyles and expanding waistlines.

ENDS

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