There's a new exercise trend in town, and it's called the "silly little walk." It's extremely easy to do, and it's gained quite a bit of attention, with over 151,000 views under the #sillylittlewalk hashtag on TikTok. This activity is so simple, in fact, that the viral trend starts by getting up and taking a little stroll outside. But people are getting outdoors for their own "silly little walks" for very good reason.

Here's what the "silly little walk" trend is all about

This outdoor walking trend prides itself on something to do that will make you feel better—mentally and physically—by getting active outside. (And we all know that some fresh air, vitamin D, and nature can work wonders on the mind, body, and soul!)

Even when it's incredibly cold outside, that's no excuse—as long as your walking route is absolutely safe to walk, you'll be so glad you carved out some time to do so. After all, everyone is hopping on the "silly little walk" bandwagon and reaping some pretty great physical and mental health rewards.

Now, as far as how you'd like to personalize your "silly little walk," the sky really is the limit. You can opt for a few laps around your neighborhood, head to one of your favorite trails, see wherever your feet take you, or make plans to meet up with one of your besties as you enjoy your favorite caffeinated beverage, as a bunch of TikTokers are doing.

Catch up on your latest playlist while putting some serious distance to your outing, or even tailor your stroll to a personal "plogging" adventure. Every step you take counts, and hey—it's healthy in more ways than one, so why not join in on the fun?

If you need a bit of inspo, under the TikTok hashtag, you'll find people documenting their walking routes and "silly little walk" adventures. The clips are likely to put a big smile on your face and motivate you to get up and active in the great outdoors.

Amid the new work-from-home "normal," it's so important to stay social and active

More and more individuals are working from home—it's the new normal—which limits social contact in a major way since there's no day-to-day in-person interaction with co-workers. You may even limit the number of social plans you make due to COVID-19 safety concerns.

But it's so incredibly important—and healthy—to clear your mind and have human contact—even if it's from a safe distance! Being social has a huge impact on your mental well-being. Research has proven that bonding with people plays a role in your health. As a matter of fact, being socially isolated can negatively impact you, both physically and psychologically. An article in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior notes adults who have a lot of social connections tend to be much healthier and lead longer lives than their peers who isolate themselves.

Going on a "silly little walk" has plenty of amazing body health benefits

By going on a "silly little walk," you will get in some very valuable cardio, and maybe even a bunch of laughs with friends. Reaping the benefits from physical exercise of any sort doesn't mean the activity has to be a hardcore workout, either. A fun, brisk stroll is all you need each day to increase your chances of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Walking will help you burn calories, along with maintaining or preventing several health disorders, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. In addition to giving you a solid energy boost, walking can help make your bones and muscles stronger, in addition to enhancing your balance and coordination.

Your mental health will get a solid boost, too

A strong walk will bring your anxiety and stress levels down, and put you in a much better mood. You will sleep better, too!

Researchers at the University of California studied almost 6,000 women who were 65 years of age and up. The study revealed that women who walk more often are less likely to experience a memory decline from age. More specifically, 17% of the women who walked the most on a weekly basis experienced memory decline, compared to 24% of the women who walked the least amount in the study. Another previous study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science concluded that participants who took a 90-minute nature walk experienced less activity in the part of the brain that's connected to one's risk of developing a mental illness.

So even when it seems like you have absolutely no extra time in your schedule, do yourself a favor, and get outside for a "silly little walk!" Your mind and body will certainly thank you—and getting active in the fresh air will feel so rejuvenating.

The post The 'Silly Little Walk' Trend Will Be Your New Favorite Exercise appeared first on Eat This, Not That.