Decisions are an important part of our lives, but sometimes making decisions can be challenging which can lead to anxiety and stress. Research has shown that walking can improve decision making. A study published in the Journal of Behavioural and Brain Functions found that participants who walked for 20 minutes before taking a cognitive test performed better than those who remained seated before the test. Researchers suggested that this improvement may be due to increased blood flow and oxygenation to the brain during exercise, as well as the release of hormones and neurotransmitters that enhance cognitive function
The Benefits of Walking for Decision Making
Walking and decision making are closely linked processes in the brain. When we walk, we are constantly making decisions about where to place our feet, how to adjust our balance, and how to navigate through our environment. These decisions are based on a combination of sensory information from our eyes, ears, and muscles, as well as our memory and experience of similar situations.
Taking a walk allows your mind time to process the situation more clearly without the distraction of other people or tasks, and dare I say a welcome break from screentime. This allows you to better evaluate all the options available to you and helps you come up with potential solutions.
Walking in natural environments has been found to have additional benefits for decision making. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that participants who walked in a natural environment performed better on a decision-making task than those who walked in an urban environment. The researchers suggested that this may be due to the restorative effects of nature on cognitive function, such as reduced stress and increased attentional capacity. Finally, walking outside has been found to have a positive effect on mood as well as creativity, which may lead to more creative solutions to problems.
Walking with Intention
When using walking as a tool for making decisions, it’s important to do so with intention. That means setting aside some time specifically for the purpose of thinking through whatever decision needs to be made while out on your walk. Focus on being mindful and observant of your surroundings so that your full attention is on the task at hand. Taking regular breaks throughout your day can also be helpful in getting clarity on any decisions that need to be made.
Making decisions doesn’t have to be hard or overwhelming; taking a walk can help make the process easier and more enjoyable. Walking allows for better evaluation of all available options, improved cognitive functioning and creativity thanks to increased oxygen levels in the brain, reduced stress and anxiety levels, and improved moods which may lead to more creative solutions! Plus, adding intentionality by setting aside specific time for decision-making during walks makes this an even more effective technique.
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