Celebrate National Walking Month This May

May is National Walking Month in the UK. A timely reminder of how something as simple as walking can do wonders for our wellbeing. Whether it’s a brisk morning stroll, a walk to the shops, or an afternoon wander through lovely Country park, taking time to move on foot can have a big impact on both physical and mental health.

Walking is one of the most underrated ways to improve overall health. Here are five powerful benefits of walking:

1. Boosts Mental Wellbeing Walking helps clear the mind, reduces anxiety, and can improve your mood, especially when done outdoors in green spaces.
   

2. Improves Physical Health Regular walking strengthens the heart, improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, and supports weight management.

   
   

3. Increases Energy and Reduces Fatigue It may seem counterintuitive, but getting up and moving can actually make you feel more energised throughout the day.
   

4. Supports Better Sleep Daily walks help regulate sleep patterns and promote deeper, more restful sleep.
   

5. Encourages Social Connection Walking with friends, family, or community groups is a great way to stay connected and combat feelings of isolation.
   

This May, why not make walking a part of your everyday life? Explore new local routes, swap the car for your feet on short trips, or organize a walking group at work.

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Here are a few local, organised, group walks that you can join in Southwater:

1. Wellbeing Walks in Southwater - As part of Horsham District Wellbeing program.
   

   Fri 9 May and Fri 23rd May at 11:00am Level 1 Distance: 2.6 miles Duration: 75 mins Walk 1009. Meet in the car park of the Country Park, (off Cripplegate Lane, RH13 9UN). Along bridleways and country lanes and return via the Downs Link. No stiles but can be muddy. Not suitable for wheelchairs or prams. The café and toilets at the Park will be open. There is a parking charge at Southwater Country Park. Sorry, but no dogs are allowed on this walk. Contact Sue on 07751092103 for more information.

2. Conversation Starter Project - Walk & Talk This friendly group meets every Friday by ‘Iggy’ the dinosaur in Lintot Square, at 12pm. These walks are FREE, there is no need to book in advance and are open to anyone over 18, registered assistance dogs are also welcome.
   

3. Join Southwater WI Walking Group The walking Sub Committee is led by four WI members.

   Gillian Pinkard, Suzanne Lewis, Tricia Gardiner & Debbie Hallgren

   
   

   Look out on the group's Facebook page and emails for different walks, at various times of day/week and varying levels of walking ability. Visit their website for contact details and to see their other activities.

   
   

4. Southwater Community Partnership - Walks Join their Facebook group for more information.
   

5. Fancy just exploring? Please click below for a few local walking routes and maps. Southwater Southwater Heritage Trail Southwater South & Shipley

Let's make May a month of movement and mindfulness. Every step you take is a step towards a healthier you!