Even a short, 10-minute walk can have major benefits for your brain and pelvic floor!
Walking releases endorphins, improving our mood and leading to greater relaxation. Find a way to get out for a walk today, even if it's just for a few minutes!
If you're dealing with pelvic health symptoms, start walking over level ground and be careful not to push your body too far.
Gentle Walking: Helps to relax the nervous system, release endorphins and give the pelvic floor gentle exercise
Make sure to get outside (if you can) for at least a 10 minute walk today. Notice how your body and mind feel afterwards!
Who are We at PelvicSanity?
At PelvicSanity, it's our mission to support patients with pelvic pain and pelvic floor symptoms, regardless of where you live. We can help with:
In-person treatment for those in Southern California at the PelvicSanity clinic
Immersive Out-of-Town program for those able to travel
Remote Consultations to get you expert 1:1 help, advice and an action plan
Online patient courses on Interstitial Cystitis and Movement for Pelvic Health
A Facebook support group for patients called Finding Pelvic Sanity.
1. Walking Releases Endorphins to Improve Mood
Even a gentle walk can release endorphins, improving your mood and banishing stress hormones. Over time, studies have shown regular walks to improve mood and self-esteem.
2. Walking Gets Us Outside
A hidden benefit of walking is getting us outside and into nature. Spending time outdoors is linked with reduced levels of stress, as well as improved brain function (memory and attention). So get outside today!
3. Safe Exercise for the Pelvic Floor
Walking is one of the safest ways to get your pelvic floor activated and moving. While you may need to be careful - especially if you're dealing with pelvic pain - to not overdo your exercise, gentle walking over level ground is one of the easiest ways to get blood flowing and the pelvic muscles moving!
4. A Way to Meditate without Meditating
Every step we take requires a complex coordination of 200 bones and nearly 600 muscles. We're concentrating on our steps. On the ground in front of us. On the feel of the air against our skin. This type of focused attention takes the mind off worries and concerns and allows us to enter an almost meditative state - even for those of us who struggle to meditate!
5. Walking Gives a Caffeine-Free Energy Boost
Getting moving is one of the best natural ways to give ourselves an energy boost. So instead of reaching for another cup of (bladder-irritant) coffee, think about taking a quick walk outside instead!
Dr. Nicole Cozean is the founder of PelvicSanity Physical Therapy in Orange County, CA. PelvicSanity treats patients from all over the world with remote consultations and the Immersive Out of Town Program. She also runs Pelvic PT Rising, training other pelvic PTs to better serve patients.
Named Physical Therapist of the Year, Dr. Nicole is author of the award-winning book The Interstitial Cystitis Solution and the first PT to serve on the ICA Board of Directors, Her passion is helping those with pelvic health issues - regardless of where they live - find lasting relief.