Where you live shapes how you live: Everyday wellbeing through walking
During Walk Your Dog Month (January), we started reflecting on why walking plays such an important role in our everyday routines, and how the places we live can quietly shape healthier, happier lifestyles. Walking is often one of the most simple and accessible forms of movement. Whether it is a quick loop around the neighbourhood, a dog walk before work, or a longer countryside stroll at the weekend, these everyday moments outdoors can have a powerful impact on both physical and mental wellbeing.
At Allison Homes, we believe that where you live matters just as much as how you live. Access to green space, walkable surroundings and connections to the countryside all help support routines that feel natural and good for the soul. By creating sustainable communities, we aim to support healthier, more balanced lifestyles where simple activities like walking can be enjoyed every day.
Walking as a part of daily routine
Walking is already part of everyday life for many people, with around one in four adults in England walking for leisure at least once a week*. For many walking is not about fitness targets or step counts. It is about rhythm and routine, from morning dog walks that set the tone for the day, to a lunchtime wander to clear the head and an evening stroll to unwind after work.
These small, consistent habits can help reduce stress, improve mood and create space for reflection, especially when they are built into your surroundings rather than forced into a busy schedule. Living close to open spaces, footpaths and green corridors makes it easier for walking to become part of everyday life instead of something that needs planning.
The wellbeing benefits of time outdoors
Spending time outside, particularly in natural environments, has been shown to support mental wellbeing, helping to reduce anxiety and encourage a sense of calm. Even short periods outdoors can make a noticeable difference.
Walking through green spaces allows people to slow down, switch off from screens and reconnect with their surroundings. For dog owners, it also brings an added sense of companionship and routine, turning a daily necessity into a shared moment to be enjoyed with your dog, and members of the community you meet along the way.
From dog walks to countryside adventures
Studies show that dog ownership encourages regular movement, with UK dog owners walking for around 300 minutes each week on average^. While daily dog walks often start close to home, they can naturally evolve into longer weekend walks, countryside rambles and family adventures. Having rural landscapes, woodland trails or riverside paths nearby makes it easier to extend these routines beyond the everyday.
Many of our developments benefit from access green open spaces and are located close to countryside settings, offering opportunities to explore beyond the immediate neighbourhood. Whether it is open woodland, parkland or scenic trails, these surroundings encourage residents to embrace the outdoors more often and build healthier habits over time.
Supporting everyday moments that matter
Walking is one of the simplest ways to look after both body and mind, and it does not require expensive equipment or big lifestyle changes. It simply requires the right environment.
At Allison Homes, we design communities that support everyday moments that matter, from morning dog walks and after-dinner strolls to longer countryside adventures at the weekend. Because when walking feels easy and enjoyable, it becomes something you want to return to again and again.
To find out more about our developments and the locations they offer, visit https://allison-homes.co.uk/developments/.
*Sport England – Active Lives Adult Survey
^Public Health England / University of Liverpool research on dog walking and physical activity
Allison Homes Web Article: 30th January 2026
