WALKING for health

Walking yoga is another hot new fitness fad, but this more mindful way to move can actually help boost your wellbeing

- TANYA PEAREY

Like a good walk? Love a bit of yoga? You can combine the two together in the popular new trend, while the weather is warmer and the days longer.

Walking yoga blends the principles of yoga with the practice of walking. 'It creates a mindful and meditative approach to physical exercise,' says teacher Sophia Drozd. 'It combines the physical benefits of walking with the mental focus and breathwork of yoga.'

Google searches for 'walking yoga' have increased by more than 5,000% this year. Although it's starting to have its moment now, the concept has been around for at least 50 years. 'It started in the 1970s as a walking meditation,' says Sophia, founder of Y4P (yogaforpainapp.com), 'walking while syncing your steps with your breath and saying mantras. Now, this practice has grown to add poses you can do while walking. It also helps you notice the world around you and feel more in tune with your body as you move.'

So why not try this lowimpact, accessible way to improve your health?

HOW TO DO IT...

Start small 'Try a short walk, perhaps one you know well,' says Sophia, 'so you can focus more on your body and the sensations of how the walk feels first. This is going to be beneficial when you synchronise your breath to the movement of walking.'