Many studies show that exercise can work quickly to elevate depressed mood in many people. Although the effects may be temporary, evidence suggests a brisk walk or other simple activities like yoga or TiChi can deliver several hours of relief, similar to taking a paracetamol for a headache.

A good walk can do wonders for your mental wellbeing and your mental health. But it’s not just about the occasional one-off, feel-good factor. Being active has a whole range of benefits when it comes to mental wellbeing, and connecting with your emotions.

So focus on one thing at a time, as physical activity does not need to be complicated.

Studies say that walking has a way of helping improve self-perception and self-esteem, and it reduces stress, anxiety and fatigue. Physically active people have up to a 30% reduced risk of becoming depressed, and staying active helps those who are depressed recover.

In business, especially in this day and age, many people work from home, so staying active is imperative as it can also improve cognitive function, memory, attention and processing speed, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. It is very important to remain active in business and life in general.

For example, regular brisk walking can help you:
– Maintain a healthy weight and lose body fat
– Improve cardiovascular fitness
– Increase energy levels
– Improve your balance and coordination
– Strengthen immune system

“Walking with my kids, has given me a much-needed boost of confidence., I now walk every day and I take a book with me wherever I roam, as this enables me to focus when I stop for a breather. I feel like a totally different person, especially as I now understand the long-term health benefits which will help me intrinsically as I get older. Walking is a wonderful way to treat my mind, body and spirit.”

The only cost, is time. The sanctum of walking is a beautiful thing. So, go for a walk. The furthest I’ve walked this year is 10 miles, I walked to Burgess Hill and then realised I had to walk back again. So, the walk on the way back took a different route, to mix it up a little. It’s easy to do…

Get up, and go for a walk.

Extra articles to read:

Walking for Health – NHS

More evidence that exercise can boost mood – Harvard Health Publishing

Written by Sonny Cutting – Sussex Business Show