You do not have to have a gym membership to boost your mental health naturally. Walking is an excellent form of exercise that almost everyone can participate in regularly.
Walking Enhances Moods
Researchers with England’s Mental Health Foundation teamed up with Sport England to conduct a study of adults. The study found that those who did a low-impact aerobic exercise for at least 30 minutes three to four times a week self-reported that their moods improved compared to those who read a book.
Walking Reduces Stress
Another study of employed adults found that those who were more active experienced less stress. When stress is present, hormones in the body go into overdrive, causing an individual to feel even more stressed. Research shows that walking helps relieve stress, improves appetite and helps people get a better night’s sleep.
Walking Improves Self-esteem
The report also shows that walking helps to improve self-esteem. Therefore, if you want to feel better about yourself, go for a walk. Researchers at the University of Essex found that spending even five minutes surrounded by nature positively impacted self-esteem. Therefore, try to find an area where you can walk in a park or garden.
Walking Helps Stop Cognitive Decline
Research shows that there is 20-to-30% less cognitive decline in older adults who participate in a daily exercise regime. Furthermore, the study shows that individuals who exercise regularly can concentrate better and experience less memory loss. Some research even suggests that regularly exercising can help stop the progression of dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Ready to Walk
While walking is a wonderful form of exercise, you must commit to doing it regularly to see positive effects. Therefore, be sure to plan time for it in your schedule. Starting slowly is a great idea because you will not get frustrated when you fail to meet your goals. Find friends or family members who love to walk and hold each other accountable.
Sometimes, exercising is not enough. If that is true in your case, we invite you to reach out to American Behavioral Clinics for a free initial consultation. Contact us today & let’s work together to help you overcome mental health challenges.
Existing Patients and New Patients, Call us to schedule an appointment, get a prescription refill or just to ask a question:
New Patients ONLY - Want to contact us through a form? CLICK HERE to fill out our contact form.
