Latest news with #NationalWalkingMonth
Tom's Guide
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
‘Color walking' is trending — here's everything you need to know
The walking trends are coming in thick and fast now that summer is approaching, and TikTok — as TikTok does — is sending each one stratospheric. If you haven't heard about it yet, put down your "hot girl walk," "silent walking," or the "Japanese walking method" for just a moment and join me in the latest TikTok fitness craze — "color walking." I use up way more of my journalistic time than I'd like slamming and damning the misleading (and sometimes downright nonsensical) wellness trends I see on TikTok. It can often feel like a relentless game of Whack-A-Mole — just when you think one has finally gone, another one springs up from nowhere. But color walking? I'm actually totally sold, to be honest. Here's what I learned from the TikTok color walking trend — and why you may benefit from trying it, too. The color walking technique is a great way to engage in National Walking Month, and because the benefits of walking are extensive, who wouldn't want to find more ways to make it more interesting, too? Dale Orton, head of photo culture and quality at nature-inspired photography company CEWE, who champions walking in nature, says: Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. 'Color walking is similar to many mindfulness practices and grounding techniques, such as deep breathing, naming categories and the 5-4-3-2-1 sensory experience, which aim to ease anxiety and help you feel more aware of your surroundings. These techniques help to anchor your thoughts and bring you back to the present moment.' He adds that you can experience the same effect with color walking — simply focus on a specific color while you walk to draw attention away from overthinking or distractions. 'It also trains your eyes to notice the small details, which heightens sensory awareness,' he says. 'Equally, we know that taking photos of nature can also help focus the mind, so combining your color walking and stopping to take photos can have double the benefit.' Orton suggests five tips if you plan to color walk. Here are a few things I noticed besides colors. Given that I was heading to my local park for this exercise, I decided not to go with green — my initial intention. Instead, I chose a color I'd have to look harder to find, which I thought could help improve my focus and prevent distractions. I landed on blue. Those walking near me probably wondered why I was standing in a field staring at the sky, but hey, we move. First, I watched how the clouds moved and interacted with the blue sky tucked away behind them; I felt…peaceful. Like the feeling after a big exhale when you've been holding your breath. I then walked around and looked for other blues that were less obvious — the color of a T-shirt (warning, don't stare at people for longer than is socially acceptable) or the orange and blue of a ball clutched between the spit-slick jaws of a panting puppy. It made me present in the moment and feel calmer in my mind. I get it, we don't all have time for long or leisurely walks whenever we feel like it, but you can benefit from even just 10 minutes of color walking. This wasn't a step tracking exercise, so I switched my phone to silent (a bit like when I tried silent walking), took out my earphones and removed my Apple Watch. Free from my self-imposed tech shackles, I explored and spent longer walking (and observing) than I would have done if I'd dutifully trotted out my regular walking route. Naturally, and without checking, I'm pretty sure I clocked up more steps. But that's not the point. Instead of going through the rhythms of my daily routine, I was actually noticing things for the first time, and I found it very soothing and enjoyable. If you're looking for a pair of the best running shoes you can wear for long walks, too, these sneakers are super cushioned and comfy. I regularly choose them for runs and walks! With my tech switched off, I could switch off. Anyone who knows me knows that I am chaotic by my very nature — a 5'2" hurricane of clumsy golden retriever energy and topic-hopping chat. I've also, and I know many people can relate, had a bit of a tough start to the year. During these mentally trickier months, my daily walks have been less about the physical benefits (hello rucking) and more about building mental stamina and finding some peace of mind. And so for once, I found myself genuinely relaxing and switching off my brain. Not for long — the worries and anxieties of the day ahead would still creep in, but just before I began floating off toward them, I'd then refocus my brain on the color blue and find myself re-anchored and tethered. I haven't found many of these mindfulness exercises work for me in life — if someone recommends 'traditional' meditation to me again, I won't be held responsible for my actions — but this one did. I enjoyed seeking out the color, observing how it interacted with its surroundings, then panning out to the object itself, how it moved, or how things moved around it. Simple, free to do and endlessly meditative. Tick, tick, tick. I honestly believe there are benefits for everyone with color walking, and it's a wellness trend I finally don't mind TikTok blowing up. If, for whatever reason, colors don't work for you, I recommend trying sounds instead. Try to choose one beforehand — like bird song — and listen for it wherever you go. If you fancy entering a trance-like state the next time you go walking, try a color walk. Trust me!
Daily Record
12-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Take part in Walk Every Day in May with over 30 South Lanarkshire groups
The 'Walk Every Day in May' initiative is being rolled out to coincide with National Walking Month. May is set to become a month of movement as people in South Lanarkshire are encouraged to take part in a national campaign inspiring everyone to walk or wheel every single day for their physical and mental health. The 'Walk Every Day in May' initiative is being rolled out to coincide with National Walking Month and will highlight the simple yet transformative power of daily activity to showcase how walking can change lives and reveal unexpected discoveries one step at a time. Spearheaded by Paths for All, Scotland's national walking charity, its mission is to create a happier, healthier and greener Scotland where everyone can enjoy the benefits of walking and wheeling. Over 700 Health Walks are already taking place in Scotland, most are every week, and delivered by members of the Scottish Health Walk Network, with 31 across South Lanarkshire. The campaign provides a crucial opportunity to spotlight the accessibility, health benefits and sense of community that comes with being more active, regardless of age or ability. By encouraging people to build walking into their everyday routine, whether it's a brisk lunchtime stroll, a wander with friends or a wheeling commute, the campaign reinforces how vital physical activity is to both physical and mental wellbeing. Chief executive of Paths for All, Kevin Lafferty, said: 'This campaign is a celebration of the simplest, most accessible form of physical activity, one that requires no special equipment or memberships. 'Walking every day, even for short bursts, brings massive benefits for mental health, brings people together, and boosts physical wellbeing. And best of all, it's completely free. 'The mental health benefits of walking are well documented. A short stroll can lift your mood, reduce anxiety, and is a way to decompress from daily stress. Social walking groups also provide a lifeline for many, offering connection and companionship, especially for those at risk of isolation.' The campaign builds on findings from Paths for All's 2023 National Attitudes Survey and Living Streets' Pedestrian Pound report, both of which reveal a clear appetite for walking, but also highlight the barriers that hold people back. While many understand the physical and mental benefits, some feel unsure how to get started, and others lack the confidence to join local walking groups. To help overcome these hurdles, the campaign will spotlight real-life stories throughout May, featuring individuals whose lives have been transformed by making walking part of their daily routine. These personal accounts aim to inspire others to take that first step, no matter their age or ability. Although 86 per cent of people in Scotland live within five miles of a town centre, and 44 per cent already walk to local shops several times a week, awareness of the hundreds of free, organised Health Walks happening nearby remains surprisingly low. This campaign offers the perfect opportunity to shine a light on what's available and encourage more people to discover the benefits of walking right on their doorstep. Walk Every Day in May features a downloadable calendar of walking adventures, tips to help stay motivated, share discoveries and connect with others online, all helping to build a nationwide community of everyday walkers. For those who'd like some help to get walking, Paths for All supports Health Walk providers throughout Scotland. These groups deliver short, free walks led by trained volunteers who welcome participants of all abilities. Health Walks are ideal for those who haven't been active recently or need to do a little more. By joining a group, participants can enjoy guided routes, make new friends, and feel supported on their walking journey, not just during National Walking Month, but all year round. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here. And did you know Lanarkshire Live is on Facebook? Head on over and give us a like and share!
Daily Mirror
10-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Get out and about with our step-by-step National Walking Month beginner's guide
Think better, feel better, sleep better. The benefits of walking are proven and the joy of being in the great outdoors with friends and family or by yourself for some 'me-time' is undeniable. So now you want to do more than boost your daily phone stats and step out on a walking holiday? You are not alone – more and more Brits are choosing to lace up and hit the paths and trails at home and abroad. But where do you start? What gear do you need for something more than a stroll round your local park or woods? We've teamed up with the experts at Glasgow-based self-guided walking holiday brand Macs Adventure to help set you on your way. And there's no better time than now, as May is the UK's National Walking Month – an annual campaign that promotes the physical and mental health benefits of walking. And the nation is blessed with a network of excellent signposted and maintained paths. Step this way for our top tips for first-time walking holidays… Your feet are your friends on a walking holiday – make sure you treat them well. Comfy boots are non-negotiable but they don't have to break the bank. Go for three-season boots with durable, water-resistant materials such as Gore-Tex or leather and make sure the soles have excellent grip for various terrains. Don't wait until your holiday to wear new boots. Break them in with short walks to make sure they're well worn-in and to avoid blisters later. Did you know that the way you lace your boots can make all the difference when tackling different comfort issues? Here are some quick and easy techniques to try... Pick moisture-wicking materials such as merino wool to keep feet dry and snug. Ensure a good fit that complements your boots, avoiding socks that bunch up or rub uncomfortably. Layering is key for unpredictable weather so it's worth packing in layers rather than anything too bulky. You can get a selection of the most interesting, important and fun travel stories sent to your inbox every week by subscribing to the Mirror Travel newsletter. It's completely free and takes minutes to do. Other ESSENTIALS Pack smart and pack safe. Here are some must-have items to include in your rucksack... Download the route before heading off as service can be a bit hit and miss in remote areas. Macs also recommends printing off the documents and guides as a back up. Otherwise, you should consider buying (or borrowing) a GPS handheld satellite tracker. Even the best-planned walking holiday requires some physical preparation and it's worth putting in some effort before you hit the trail. Picking the right trip for your first walking holiday is really important. With self-guided tours you are able to walk at your own pace, take breaks whenever you want, and enjoy the freedom of independent travel without having to wait for anyone else to catch up. Macs Adventure categorises all its trips by difficulty levels, so beginners can start with routes graded Easy or Easy to Moderate. Macs founder Neil Lapping said: 'Walking holidays are in great demand, with more and more people looking to turn a leisurely pastime into a great holiday. 'We have a huge range of itineraries to suit everyone, whether you're looking for a slower, more relaxed trip, or something more challenging. One of the best things about doing it self-guided is there is no rush – you can take a break when you want, linger over a long lunch, or just soak up the views. You get to set your own pace.' Here are a few beginner-friendly options to consider: To book a walking holiday see
Daily Record
07-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
People in Dumfries and Galloway urged to walk every day in May
Paths For All is highlighting how walking can change lives and reveal unexpected discoveries. People in Dumfries and Galloway are being urged to walk every day in May. Paths For All is launching a campaign highlighting how walking can change lives and reveal unexpected discoveries to coincide with National Walking Month. The Walk Every Day In May scheme aims to shine a light on the accessibility, health benefits and sense of community that comes with being more active, regardless of age or ability. Chief executive of Paths for All, Kevin Lafferty, said: 'This campaign is a celebration of the simplest, most accessible form of physical activity, one that requires no special equipment or memberships. 'Walking every day, even for short bursts, brings massive benefits for mental health, brings people together, and boosts physical wellbeing. And best of all, it's completely free. 'The mental health benefits of walking are well documented. A short stroll can lift your mood, reduce anxiety, and is a way to decompress from daily stress. Social walking groups also provide a lifeline for many, offering connection and companionship, especially for those at risk of isolation.' Walking can boost physical and mental wellbeing and help create a happier, healthier and greener Scotland. One way to get involved is to take part in one of the many Health Walks which are free delivered by members of the Scottish Health Walk Network every week. Health Walks are ideal for those who haven't been active recently or need to do a little more. By joining a group, participants can enjoy guided routes, make new friends, and feel supported on their walking journey, not just during National Walking Month, but all year round.
Daily Record
07-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Take part in Walk Every Day in May campaign to boost your physical and mental health
Initiative being rolled out to coincide with National Walking Month and will highlight the simple yet transformative power of daily activity to showcase how walking can change lives and reveal unexpected discoveries one step at a time. May is a month of movement as people in North Lanarkshire are encouraged to take part in a national campaign inspiring everyone to walk or wheel every single day for their physical and mental health. The Walk Every Day in May initiative is being rolled out to coincide with National Walking Month and will highlight the simple yet transformative power of daily activity to showcase how walking can change lives and reveal unexpected discoveries one step at a time. Spearheaded by Paths for All, Scotland's national walking charity, its mission is to create a happier, healthier and greener Scotland where everyone can enjoy the benefits of walking and wheeling. More than 700 Health Walks are already taking place Scotland - most are every week, and delivered by members of the Scottish Health Walk Network, with 26 across North Lanarkshire. The campaign provides a crucial opportunity to spotlight the accessibility, health benefits, and sense of community that comes with being more active, regardless of age or ability. By encouraging people to build walking into their everyday routine, whether it's a brisk lunchtime stroll, a wander with friends or a wheeling commute, the campaign reinforces how vital physical activity is to both physical and mental wellbeing. Chief executive of Paths for All, Kevin Lafferty, said: "This campaign is a celebration of the simplest, most accessible form of physical activity, one that requires no special equipment or memberships. "Walking every day, even for short bursts, brings massive benefits for mental health, brings people together, and boosts physical wellbeing. And best of all, it's completely free. "The mental health benefits of walking are well documented. A short stroll can lift your mood, reduce anxiety, and is a way to decompress from daily stress. "Social walking groups also provide a lifeline for many, offering connection and companionship, especially for those at risk of isolation." The campaign builds on findings from Paths for All's 2023 National Attitudes Survey and Living Streets' Pedestrian Pound report, both of which reveal a clear appetite for walking, but also highlight the barriers that hold people back. While many understand the physical and mental benefits, some feel unsure how to get started, and others lack the confidence to join local walking groups. To help overcome these hurdles, the campaign will spotlight real-life stories throughout May, featuring individuals whose lives have been transformed by making walking part of their daily routine. These personal accounts aim to inspire others to take that first step, no matter their age or ability. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
