WALKING: A LOST ART?

Beautiful Spirit, while walking this morning, I was listening to this podcast.  And upon hearing, the thought came to me, Walking, A Lost Art.  If you have an opportunity, do listen.

If you are over 50, start moving! The benefits far outweigh staying inactive.  Besides, it’s free.  The only cost, if you can consider it, is the time you invest in yourself by extending your life,  enjoying the outdoors, and soaking up God’s creation.

In a world filled with fitness trackers, gym memberships, and high-intensity workout trends, it’s easy to forget the most natural, accessible form of movement we have: walking.  For women over 50, walking isn’t just exercise—it’s a lifeline back to energy, clarity, strength, and peace of mind.

Many people wonder if walking has become a “lost art,” replaced by faster, louder, trendier routines. The truth? Walking has never lost its power. If anything, we drifted away from it, but its benefits, especially in midlife and beyond, remain unmatched.

Whether you’re navigating a new season, reclaiming your health, through self-care,  or simply craving movement that feels gentle yet effective, walking is one of the strongest tools you can return to.

Take a look at the benefits below:

The Benefits of Walking Over 50

1. It Keeps Your Joints Happy

Walking naturally lubricates your joints, helping reduce stiffness and discomfort—especially in the hips and knees. When you move regularly, your body rewards you with better mobility.

2. It Strengthens Your Heart

Just 20–30 minutes of walking a day can lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and support long-term heart health. As our bodies change with age, heart strength becomes even more important.

3. It Supports a Healthy Weight

You don’t have to sprint or lift heavy to support a healthy metabolism. Walking burns calories steadily, helps manage midlife weight fluctuations.

4. It Boosts Brain Health

Walking increases blood flow to the brain, improving memory, focus, and emotional resilience. Research shows it can help slow cognitive decline—and who doesn’t want a clearer mind?

5. It Reduces Stress and Improves Mood

A simple walk—especially outdoors—can shift your entire day. The combination of fresh air, movement, and sunlight creates a natural lift in your mood and energy.

6. It Strengthens Bones

Walking is a weight-bearing activity, which means it helps maintain and improve bone density. This is key for preventing fractures as we age.

7. It Improves Balance and Stability

Regular walking strengthens your core and lower body, reducing the risk of falls and boosting your confidence in everyday movement.

8. It Supports Longevity

Studies consistently show that people who walk regularly live longer and enjoy a higher quality of life. It’s a simple habit with a long-term payoff.

Is Walking a Lost Art?

In many ways, yes—and no.

Walking has become less common in our fast-paced, convenience-driven world. We drive more, sit more, and often underestimate gentle movement.

Walking reminds us  to slow down.
To breathe.
To reconnect with our bodies and our thoughts.
To make space for the creativity and peace we’re often missing.

For women over 50, walking isn’t just about fitness.  It’s about freedom to move, to think, to reset, and to step into your next chapter with grace and strength.  To Shift with Grace.  🙂

It is never too late to start,  or begin again.  Take a look at the steps below:

How to Bring Walking Back Into Your Life

• Start with 10 minutes a day.

• Choose comfortable shoes that support your stride.

• Walk with a friend for accountability—or enjoy the solitude.  Those of you that know me know that solitude is my preference.

• Explore new neighborhoods or trails for a dose of inspiration.

• Add music, an audiobook, or prayer/meditation time to make your walk sacred and satisfying.  This right here….Yasssssssss!

Walking doesn’t require perfection. It just requires consistency.

Final Thought

Walking is far from a lost art—it’s a rediscovered treasure.  You don’t need a gym membership or latest trend to claim it. Every step you take is an investment in your vitality, your clarity, and your future.

So lace up, step out, and let your next chapter meet you on the path.

Let’s make it happen.

XOXO,

GEM

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