In this "wonderful" (John Brandon, Forbes) book, neuroscientist Shane
O'Mara invites us to marvel at the benefits walking confers on our
bodies and brains, and to appreciate the advantages of this uniquely
human skill. From walking's evolutionary origins, traced back millions
of years to life forms on the ocean floor, to new findings from
cutting-edge research, he reveals how the brain and nervous system give
us the ability to balance, weave through a crowded city, and run our
"inner GPS" system. Walking is good for our muscles and posture;?it
helps to protect and repair organs, and can slow or turn back the aging
of our brains. With our minds in motion we think more creatively, our
mood improves, and stress levels fall. Walking together to achieve a
shared purpose is also a social glue that has contributed to our
survival as a species.
As our lives become increasingly sedentary, O'Mara makes the case that
we must start walking again--whether it's up a mountain, down to the
park, ?or simply to school and work. In Praise of Walking?illuminates
the joys, health benefits, and mechanics of walking, and reminds us to
get out of our chairs and discover a happier, healthier, more creative
self.