“Walking is man’s best medicine.”
- c. 460 BC – c. 370 BC
- Greek
- Physician, “Father of Medicine”
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Quote
“Walking is man’s best medicine.”
Explanation
This quote is commonly attributed to Hippocrates, and while its exact wording does not appear in the Hippocratic Corpus, the idea is deeply rooted in Hippocratic philosophy. Hippocrates emphasized the importance of diet, lifestyle, and physical activity in maintaining health. Walking, as a gentle and accessible form of exercise, was viewed as essential for preserving bodily balance and preventing disease.
In ancient Greek medicine, health was seen as a dynamic equilibrium of the four humors, and physical movement was a means of ensuring that balance. Walking, in particular, was considered beneficial for digestion, circulation, and mental clarity. This reflects Hippocrates’ broader belief that the body has natural healing powers, and that physicians should support those powers through moderation, cleanliness, and movement rather than relying solely on drugs or invasive procedures.
Today, the quote remains strikingly relevant. Modern research confirms that regular walking reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and depression. It is often prescribed as a first-line intervention for improving physical and mental well-being. Thus, whether or not Hippocrates said it in these exact words, the principle that simple, consistent movement is foundational to health remains universally accepted and scientifically validated.
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