Walking the Brain
1st May 2018
By Chloe Nunan
1st May 2018 marks the start of National Walking Month and although not explicitly something we link with psychology, the simple act of walking has complex benefits on our mental wellbeing that many are unaware of. Physical exercise is very good for the human body and more importantly, the brain. If the most common of things such as walking – that most of us are able to do every day – can have positive effects on our brain and mental wellbeing, then we should all be taking advantage and getting more active on our feet.
For most, walking isn’t a strenuous activity; it can be done alone or with others, and can be fun. You can go at your own pace and it doesn’t feel or look like much, but has a huge impact on our minds. You know that feeling when you just can’t think clearly? For different situations, it is necessary to give yourself time, so be patient. It is essential to gather perspective. You can get a much clearer look at things when you settle down your feelings. This is impossible for you to do closed in behind four walls – you need to get out into the open air and move. Walking means getting oxygen to your brain. This lets your mind and imagination flow a lot more free. You can then clear away all of the doubts and fears that have been or are afflicting you.
Walking has been known to improve our self-perception and self-esteem, increase our mood and sleep quality, reduce stress, anxiety and interestingly reduce fatigue. More physically active individuals have up to a 30% reduced risk of becoming depressed, and there has also been huge evidence supporting that staying active helps those who are depressed to recover. In older people, staying active can improve memory, cognitive function, attention and also processing speed. Another effect of staying active is the reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
The physical improvements you gain by walking can also help improve mental health. If you’re feeling fitter and more in control of your weight, body image and confidence can increase – so although a benefit, it’s not just the physical improvements that you’ll notice when you get up and start walking more!
Overall the take home message is to walk regularly. Invest in your long-term health now while you can and you’ll see the difference that walking can make to your mind, body and even social life. This may be something so simple yet can have a massive impact on not only today’s population, but also on our older generations and generations to come. Walking in a group is a great way to get started and stay motivated…May is the perfect month to get involved and get a head start on creating a more mentally (and physically) positive future. There are loads of ways to get involved, including ‘WALK-TO-SCHOOL’ schemes and group walking activities.
To find out more visit:
https://www.livingstreets.org.uk/national-walking-month/get-your-free-national-walking-month-resources https://www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/