If you want to get more than just exercise while you walk, walk in the green. A study done in the UK found that walking out of doors, and experiencing nature was more beneficial to mood that exercise taken in an indoor shopping mall. In fact, people walking in shopping centers reported a lower sense of self-esteem than those walking in outdoor, green areas.

The concept is called eco-therapy. The study found it enhances connections between people and nature and encourages social interaction and companionship. Your senses are more stimulated during a nature walk, the colors, scents and fresh air lift the mood. You escape the stress of modern life and relax and even just the exercise itself gives you a feeling of confidence and a sense of achievement.

Gardening, helping to clean up a park or just taking a nature walk are all outdoor activities that can boost your physical health and your mental health.

Read more about eco-therapy

Walking is great exercise at any age and it particularly sets older Americans in good stead in terms of health and emotional benefits. Getting out into the community by walking develops outside interests as well as building muscle mass, burning calories and enhancing cardiovascular health.

Ir you’re an avid walker and looking to retire to a community that affords great opportunities and destinations for walkers, then have a look at the list of the top 10 cities for walking according to the American Podiatric Medicine Association as updated in 2006.

Topping the list is Portland, Oregon. Number two is Colorado Springs, CO, followed by Madison, WI at number three and Boise, ID in the fourth slot. You might be surprised to find the fifth ranked city for best walking is Las Vegas, NV.

Check out the list at the APMA.

Top Ten Walking Cities for 2006