Please note that Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may receive a commission or revenue from some items featured in the following links.
Your brain is the control center of your body, making it essential to maintain its health. While doctors have long emphasized the importance of factors like a healthy diet and engaging in new activities to support brain health, recent research highlights two key habits that are particularly beneficial: walking and spending quality time with loved ones.
Each step you take during a walk contributes to a sharper mind in multiple ways. Studies have shown that regular walking can enhance memory, improve focus, and even slow down cognitive decline, reducing the risk of developing dementia. Additionally, research indicates that walking can enhance creativity. A recent study published in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine revealed that individuals who were physically active, including through walking, exhibited processing speeds equivalent to those four years younger while engaging in brain games.
Another crucial aspect for brain health is socialization. Your brain thrives on connections, a fact supported by research. Regular social interactions have been linked to improved memory, problem-solving skills, and a reduced risk of dementia. For instance, a study published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity found that individuals who engaged with family and friends on a regular basis experienced a slower rate of memory decline compared to those who socialized less.
Meet the experts: Dr. Jonathan Howard, a neurologist at NYC Health and Hospitals/Bellevue; Dr. Scott Kaiser, the director of geriatric cognitive health at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Providence Saint John’s Health Center; and Dr. Amit Sachdev, the medical director in the Department of Neurology at Michigan State University.
Considering the potential benefits of combining walking and socialization, exploring this dual approach for brain health seems promising. While formal studies on this specific combination are limited, experts believe it could be a powerful strategy worth investigating further.
Why Walking With a Loved One Enhances Brain Health:
There are several factors at play here. Firstly, walking is a beneficial form of exercise that improves overall cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of dementia, according to Dr. Jonathan Howard. Healthy blood vessels are crucial for brain function, as they supply nutrients and eliminate toxins, and there is a known connection between heart disease and dementia.
In addition to promoting overall health, walking directly contributes to brain health by stimulating the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This protein supports the growth and survival of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, playing a key role in memory and learning, as explained by Dr. Scott Kaiser. By enhancing brain network functionality, BDNF helps maintain optimal brain health.
Moreover, walking can help alleviate stress levels, which can have detrimental effects on the brain if left unaddressed. Managing stress through physical activity can positively impact brain function at a cellular level, benefiting overall cognitive health.
Dr. Kaiser emphasizes that your step count can play a role in counteracting stress. Spending time with loved ones is also recognized as an anti-stressor and can promote good heart health, ultimately benefiting brain health as well. Dr. Kaiser suggests that feeling well connected may lead to making healthier choices regarding drinking, eating, and substance abuse.
According to Jacqueline Andriakos, WH’s executive health and fitness director, women’s sneakers are not only comfortable and lightweight but also come in various colors and offer great value for an affordable price. Some recommended options include the $23.99 sneakers available on Amazon.
Andriakos goes on to praise the TechLoom Zipline shoes as being akin to walking on clouds due to their unique design. The Novablast 3 model is highlighted for its soft and cushioned features, making it ideal for pain-free walking, especially for heel strikers or those dealing with heel pain.
The Time Off Platform Slip On sneakers offer a platform design with Dr. Scholl’s comfort technology, making them suitable for all-day wear without causing foot aches. Laura McLaughlin, WH’s managing editor, commends the Athens shoes for their comfort and durability during long days of exploration.
Andriakos recommends the Cloudgo sneakers for their sturdy yet cushioned and supportive feel, noting that the light soles are perfect for standing and walking. The Out N About III Low Sneaker Waterproof shoes are praised for keeping feet dry in various conditions, making them a versatile option for travel.
The OOmg eeZee Low slip-ons are described as a comforting choice for post-workout strolls, offering a snug fit for the feet. Neha Tandon, WH’s senior e-commerce editor, finds the Geotrecca Low RP shoes versatile and reliable in different weather conditions.
For those in need of structured support, the Walker Classic shoes provide protection and cushioning for all-day comfort. While there are no specific studies linking walking with a loved one to dementia prevention, group exercise programs have shown positive effects on maintaining quality of life and reducing stress levels.
It is evident that regular exercise, including walking and group activities, can have significant benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
“Singing is good and socializing in groups is beneficial,” Dr. Kaiser explains. “The benefits for brain health may be greater when done together.”
How Often To Walk With Your Loved Ones For Optimal Brain Health
It’s challenging to specify a particular number, as research has not yet explored this area extensively. However, if you aim for a high target, Dr. Howard recommends attempting to walk for 30 minutes at a time on most days of the week.
Given the difficulty of consistently finding time with family and friends, Dr. Kaiser suggests doing what you can. “Most evidence indicates that inactivity is detrimental, and any amount of activity is beneficial,” he notes. “Nevertheless, generally speaking, more is preferable.”
If engaging in lengthier walks with loved ones proves challenging, Dr. Kaiser advises trying to incorporate “exercise snacks,” such as stepping out of the office at the end of the day with a colleague or taking a stroll around the neighborhood with your mother when she visits instead of just sitting on the couch. Alternatively, you could establish your walking routine and socialize by conversing on the phone with loved ones.
Moreover, you can adopt this new practice at any age. “I can’t think of any age group that wouldn’t benefit from this,” Dr. Kaiser affirms.
Nurturing good brain health involves various factors, but walking with a loved one addresses many aspects and allows for quality social interaction as well. “It’s prudent to accomplish multiple objectives with a single action,” says Dr. Howard.
You Might Also Like
Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream
These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
