WALKING IN WINTER

With a few qualifications, winter is a great time for getting out into the air. For the more vigorous among us, there’s skiing, snowshoeing, mountain climbing, ice skating, ice fishing and snowmobiling. But for the rest of us, just an occasional good walk can do wonders.

This winter, unlike some in recent years, offers frequent breaks between the snowstorms, when the sky is often crystal clear and the sun seems to cast a bit of warmth. Where ice remains after a thaw, a good sanding helps prevent slips and falls.

One of many good places for a winter walk is the part of the Acadia National Park Loop Road from Sand Beach past the Thunder Hole to the parking lot near Otter Cliffs. The rest of the loop is closed, but park employees keep that stretch clear and regularly sanded.

Some precautions are wise. On a windy day, dress extra warmly and consider earmuffs or a cap that covers the ears. Frostbite is no fun. Watch out for patches of bare ice. A fall can spoil things for a long time.

On the plus side, Dr. Paul G. Donohue, who advises Bangor Daily News readers in his daily column, frequently advises regular walking. He has said at various times that it can build muscle strength, protect against heart problems, reduce visceral fat, help lower bad cholesterol and help you live longer. He says even a half-hour every day or so will help, and a good pace is 100 to 150 steps a minute. He adds that if that seems too fast, don’t worry about it. Fast walking is better, but even moseying does some good.

The scene in a Maine winter is quite different from summer. Ocean and mountains stand out more distinctly in the clear air. And you actually can see more of the landscape. With those big leaves gone, you can see through the bare branches to make out the profiles of hills and catch views of lakes and ocean that were hidden in summer.

If it is too tempting to just stay inside and read or watch the television, try teaming up with someone else, so that one of you can get the other going.

One more piece of advice: Try to get out early in the day, before the clouds roll in and the next flurry of snow or sleet closes in.