Embrace the chill.
Winter’s arrival may tempt you to stay indoors, but stepping out for a winter walk can offer a multitude of health benefits.
From immune system boosts to mood elevation, here’s 7 reasons to embrace the chill and make winter walks a priority:
![Boost your immune system and get walking this winter](https://www.westporthouse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/young-woman-is-lying-sick-home-couch-blowing-nose-with-paper-handkerchief-1.jpg)
1. Boosts Immune System
Cold exposure stimulates the immune system, making it more resilient against seasonal illnesses. Regular winter walks can be a proactive defence against winter bugs.
![Winter walks can improve your mood, energising you for the busy festive period](https://www.westporthouse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cheerful-young-sisters-with-cups-coffee-go-having-fun-holiday-winter-night-city-street-1.jpg)
2. Improves Mood
Braving the cold triggers the release of endorphins, enhancing your mood and combating seasonal blues. A winter walk can be a natural antidote to winter melancholy.
![Winter walks can boost your productivity level](https://www.westporthouse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/young-sportswoman-making-herself-healthy-smoothie-slicing-fresh-fruit-kitchen-1.jpg)
3. Increases Energy Levels
Instead of reaching for that extra cup of coffee, step outside for a brisk winter walk. The cold air and physical activity provide a natural energy boost, leaving you feeling revitalised.
![Walking promotes cardiovascular health](https://www.westporthouse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/top-view-world-heart-day-concept-1.jpg)
4. Enhances Cardiovascular Health
Winter walks, despite the chill, contribute to excellent cardiovascular health. The combination of cold air and exercise does wonders for your heart.
![Burn calories as you walk while taking in the dazzling Christmas lights at Westport House](https://www.westporthouse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/dsc01959-1.jpg)
5. Burns Calories
Don’t let the cold deter you—winter walks are an effective calorie-burning workout. The body works harder to stay warm, making your stroll a stealthy fitness routine.
![A winter walk provides an opportunity to clear your mind and reduce stress levels.](https://www.westporthouse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/young-woman-walking-otzarreta-forest-natural-park-gorbea-bizkaia-basque-country-1.jpg)
6. Reduces Stress
Nature has a calming effect on the mind, and winter landscapes are particularly serene. A winter walk provides an opportunity to clear your mind and reduce stress levels.
![Facing the winter chill can build up resilience](https://www.westporthouse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/anonymous-person-walking-snowy-field-1.jpg)
7. Builds Resilience
Stepping out of your comfort zone and facing the elements builds mental resilience. Embracing the winter chill in a positive way can translate into a more resilient mindset in various aspects of your life.
![Winter is magical at Westport House.](https://www.westporthouse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/winter-wonderland-christmas-food-2023-16-1-1-533x800.jpg)
![Take a winter stroll through the festive grounds of Westport House](https://www.westporthouse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/winter-wonderland-2023-house-tinsel-town-37-1.jpg)
Walk the Grounds of Westport House
Why not walk the grounds of Westport House this winter!
Decorated in beautiful Christmas lights, the grounds of our 400-acre Estate are amazing to walk with family, your fury friend or just yourself this time of the year.
This winter, resist the urge to hibernate indoors. Bundle up, lace up your boots, and venture outside for a winter walk – your body and mind will thank you!
We always recommend checking our opening hours page for the most up-to-date opening hours for the grounds.
Fancy a festive treat during your walk?