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Take Heart. Take a Walk.
by Karen Coney Coplin

ome say laughter is the best medicine Circle of Friends - Walking for Good invites you to participate in
and, if that's the case, then walking may Saturday walks at the Gordon River Greenway. The group gathers and
S well be the second best prescription for welcomes newcomers at 8:30 a.m. Saturday mornings
good health! at 1590 Goodlette Frank Road. At the present time,
It's a simple way to exercise, plus, it's free the walks are scheduled every other Saturday.
and no special equipment is needed. Walking is A suggested donation of $5 for every walker will go toward
a low impact way to be more physically active, a particular Saturday event's non-profit.
strengthen your joints, and become more limber. Coming up this month:
So, if you want to walk more, then make it a habit. It will March 1 is the Circle of Friends walk to support Habitat for Humanity
improve your cardiovascular system, reduce risks of serious health March 15 is the walk to support the Everglades Foundation
issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and diabetes March 29 is the walk to support the Giffords Foundation
-all by helping to maintain a healthy weight. Each walk begins with a short talk highlighting information
Walking also wards off other problems, like osteoporosis over about the selected charity. Then it's time to lace up your shoes
the long term, by helping increase bone density. and hit the path!
And it's a great way to clear your mind, which is a safeguard The Circle of Friends has a mission to foster kindness and
for your mental health. Having a bad day? Go for a walk. If you meaningful connections. It was conceived as a way to strengthen our
still need to lift your spirits, take another walk! Bonus points if Naples community in a fashion which is accessible to all in contrast
your amidst the sounds of nature. to the big ticket fundraisers which dot the local charitable landscape.
Walking also delivers an energy boost. And, those who walk If you're interested in joining "the circle" and making friends while
on a regular basis often find that they can fall asleep faster and making a difference, visit circlefriends.gives or send an email to
enjoy more deeply restful sleep too. info@circlefriends.gives
So with all of these great benefits, how do we get walking on "We are all just walking each other home."
our daily calendar or more often in general? - the late Ram Dass
Walking with friends at a regular meetup is one way; enjoying Please contact Karen at NaplesKCC@gmail.com with suggestions
a stroll after a meal together is another. It's a great way to provide for future article coverage, which is often centered on charitable
real connection and an easy way to socialize while being active. organizations in Naples and the programs/services these groups offer.
There are also walking groups which can provide inspiration Additionally, for more vignettes about life in Naples, give her
and motivation. a follow on Instagram @Naplesbythenumbers
The "Circle of Friends" charitable fund within the
Collier Community Foundation is now organizing regular
walks to benefit a variety of non-profit organizations.

46 www.LifeInNaples.net