BOSTON -- Taking an easy walk or stroll on the beach is a great way to lift your spirits. It can also be a good way to strengthen an often-neglected part of our body -- our feet and ankles.

Sometimes we don't pay attention to our feet (unless they hurt) or our ankles (unless we trip or sprain one of them). These unnoticed body parts work overtime, providing us with a strong base of support, strength, balance and stability to carry us where we need to go when we need to get there!

So, the next time you have the opportunity to walk along the beach keep some of the following tips in mind. And if you can't get to the beach, just try a little "barefoot" walking in an unobstructed part of your home.

Extend your leg and step out heel first, lifting the toes as much as you can, then roll through your entire foot. You will feel the front of the lower leg contract (work) and the back of the lower leg stretch, but most of all, you will be aware of using your entire foot - toes, arch and heel.

If your shins feel tired, take a break and do a few heel raises (feet comfortably apart, body is balanced as you lift up to the balls of your feet. Feel that you use your entire forefoot as you try to hold for a few seconds. Your ankles and toes will work to stabilize you.

Try to walk close to the water's edge, or where the sand is packed more solidly and the surface is as level as possible. Walking for a long time at an angle that is pitched can cause excessive pressure on one side of your body, impacting your back, hip, knees and/or ankles, so change direction to provide a more even routine for your body.

Don't forget to breathe, relax, enjoy, and bring along some water AND sunscreen!