Boost Your Mind and Body with Depression and Walking! Let's Refresh with the Power of Nature♪

Boost your mind and body with depression and walking♪　

Hello, this is Satsuki! Today I want to talk about something a bit serious: depression and walking. Have you been feeling down or lacking motivation lately? Actually, I sometimes get a bit depressed myself when I'm caught up in busy days... But walking is what helped me during those times♪

Why is walking effective for depression?

First of all, when you're in a state of depression, it can feel like a chore to go outside, and you might not have the energy to do anything. That's exactly when it's important to go out and incorporate light exercise. Especially, light exercise like walking has a very positive impact on both the mind and body♪

Walking isn't just exercise; it's also time to connect with nature. There are research results showing that walking in nature refreshes the brain and lowers the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone! Also, by soaking up sunlight, the secretion of serotonin, the "happiness hormone," is promoted, and your mood gradually brightens up♪

Recommendations for "walking" to prevent depression

I started walking during a time when I was feeling a bit down and stressed. But when I walked a little, both my body and mind felt refreshed, and I felt a bit more positive! Even just a 30-minute walk clears my head and makes me feel lighter♪

Especially, walking in a park with lots of greenery or along a river really lets the power of nature heal your heart. It's like killing two birds with one stone, as you not only spend relaxing time but also get a sense of accomplishment after the walk, thinking, "I did my best today!"♪

Making it a habit is the key♪

But you know, walking just once won't lead to dramatic improvements in depression. What's important here is making it a habit! By incorporating walking into your daily routine, your mood will gradually stabilize. As I wrote earlier, it takes 66 days to form a new habit, but please try to be conscious of continuing it every day, even if it's just for a short time.

Try finding a walking partner♪

Walking alone is good, but sometimes I recommend going out for a walk with friends or family! Walking while talking to someone makes you feel more at ease, and it becomes easier to talk about your usual worries. I love the time I spend meeting up with friends at a cafe and having coffee after a short walk♪

Now, why don't you all start incorporating a little bit of walking starting today? Let's take care of our mental health and lead happier lives every day!