The Joy of Walking

Walking is one of the most accessible forms of exercise. It requires no special equipment, can be done almost anywhere, and is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll through the park, participating in a brisk walk with your local walking club – the benefits are numerous:

• Cardiovascular Health: Regular walking helps improve heart health by increasing circulation and reducing the risk of heart disease
• Mental Well-being: Walking releases endorphins, which can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression
• Weight Management: Consistent walking can aid in weight loss and help maintain a healthy weight
• Social Connection: Walking clubs provide a sense of community and support, making exercise more enjoyable and sustainable

The magic that is Kombucha 

Kombucha, a fermented tea beverage, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. Promoted by gut health gurus and health advocates such as  Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall, it is a natural product with huge benefits – just like walking!

Making kombucha at home is a rewarding process that involves fermenting sweetened tea with a mother culture, called a Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast (SCOBY).

The kombucha brewed at home will be authentic, super fresh, raw and totally natural, it will be a great addition to your already healthy, active lifestyle, and it is very easy and cheap to make (we will come onto that in a bit).

Here are some reasons why homemade kombucha is beneficial:

• Probiotics: Kombucha is rich in probiotics, which support gut health by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the digestive system
• Antioxidants: The fermentation process enhances the antioxidant properties of tea (we always use green tea for maximum antioxidants and the BEST taste .. in our opinion anyways :)) which can help protect the body from oxidative stress
• Detoxification: Kombucha contains enzymes and acids that may aid in detoxifying the liver and improving overall digestion
• Personalisation: Making kombucha at home allows you to control the ingredients and flavour, ensuring a natural and always delicious, healthy drink … in and an unlimited supply too!

During the festival, Hebe will show attendees how simple it is to get started and will answer any questions about this ancient fermented tea. She will demonstrate the process with one of her ingenious Kombucha Starter Kits which are a great way to ensure you have everything you need, clear beginner-friendly instructions, and a life-time guarantee of brewing support! The WALX HQ team and local WALX Dorset walkers are already brewing regularly and feeling the benefits.

The Synergy of Walking and Homemade Kombucha

Combining the practice of walking with the regular consumption of fresh, raw and natural kombucha can create a powerful synergy for ultimate health and wellness.

Here’s how:

• Enhanced Digestion: The probiotics in kombucha can improve gut health, which in turn can enhance nutrient absorption and energy levels, making your walks more enjoyable, energised and effective
• Increased Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for any physical activity. Kombucha, being a refreshing beverage, can help keep you hydrated before, during, and after your long walks, especially if its warm!
• Boosted Immunity: Both walking and kombucha have immune-boosting properties. Regular exercise strengthens the immune system, while the probiotics in kombucha support gut health, which is closely linked to maintaining good immune function
• Mental Clarity: The combination of physical activity and the mental relaxation that comes from walking, along with the mood-enhancing properties of kombucha, can lead to improved mental clarity and focus … especially if you have spent time brewing and nurturing that kombucha yourself

If you can’t make the festival check out the simple tips from Boo Cha Cha below or why not browse the website to find out more. They have a range of products for people who aren’t sure whether brewing at home is for them or not, browse their offerings here. 

Tips for making Kombucha at Home

If you’re new to making kombucha at home, we ALWAYS recommend using the continuous brew method.

Here are some simple steps to get you started:

1. Gather Ingredients: You’ll need tea (black or green), sugar, water, and a SCOBY
2. Brew the Tea: Prepare a batch of sweetened tea and let it cool to room temperature
3. Add the SCOBY: Place the SCOBY with starter liquid into a glass container and add the cool tea, then cover with clean, breathable cover
4. Ferment: Allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature for 7-10 days, tasting periodically until it reaches a flavour that tastes perfect to you
5. Bottle and Enjoy: Once fermented, bottle your kombucha (glass bottle) and refrigerate. You can also add natural flavours like fruit or herbs during this stage!

Conclusion

Walking and making kombucha at home are both simple, enjoyable activities that can significantly enhance your health and well-being.

By incorporating these wellbeing practices into your regular exercise routine, you’ll not only improve your physical health but also experience the joy and satisfaction that comes from taking control of your wellness journey.

So lace up your walking shoes, join your local WALX group, brew a batch of kombucha, and embark on a path to a healthier, happier you!