| The best remedy for a short temper is a long walk. JACQUELINE SCHIFF |
| We know that exercise has a positive effect on the brain. Researchers at Duke University demonstrated several years ago that exercise can be an effective antidepressant. Other research has shown that exercise can improve the brain functioning of the elderly, and may even protect against dementia. How does exercise improve mental health? |
| A common theory for some of the benefits of exercise is that exercise triggers the production of endorphins. |
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| have you found walking calms you down or cheers you up? |
| Got a headache? A walk in the nearest park, or even round the block, will help clear your head and relax those strained muscles. |
These natural opiates are chemically similar to morphine. They may be produced as natural pain-relievers in response to the shock that the body receives in exercise. Researchers are questioning whether these substances reduce tension and improve your mood. |
| If you're stuck in a concrete jungle all day for work, you'll be amazed at how quickly a walk in a nice green park near home or work will make you feel better. Just enjoy the trees, flowers and birds - even lie on the grass for a bit and look at the sky - not recommended for when it is dark as someone might trip over you! |
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Some psychologists in the US and Britain have started taking their consulting rooms outside. Instead of being inside an office on a leather chair, they walk around a park with their clients and discuss their problems while getting some fresh air and exercise. |
| Walking is good for solving problems - it's like the feet are little psychiatrists. Pepper Giardino |
| | Mind, the mental health charity, also agrees with the health benefits of being outdoors, stressing last year the need for “ecotherapy”, or “green” exercise. It's research indicated that 71 per cent of people suffering from depression reported a lifting of their mood after a walk through a park or the countryside, while 22 per cent felt their depression worsen after a stroll through an indoor shopping centre. |
bottom line | most of us feel good after exercise, and it's probably not from endorphins. Physical exercise is good for our mental health and for our brains. Someday we will understand it all better - but we can start exercising today. |
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