The Mental Health Benefits of Walking: Simple Steps to a Healthier Mind
Walking, a seemingly mundane activity, holds profound benefits for our mental health. In a hectic world, the simplicity of putting one foot in front of the other offers a path to relaxation and wellbeing. As we delve into the significance of walking for mental health, let’s explore five straightforward tips to kickstart your journey towards a healthier mind.
Stress Reduction: In the hustle of daily life, stress can accumulate like dust on neglected shelves. Walking acts as a natural broom, sweeping away tension and anxiety. Studies have shown that even a brief stroll can trigger the release of endorphins, those feel-good neurotransmitters that counteract stress hormones.
Mood Enhancement: Ever notice how a walk in the park can lift your spirits? That’s not just anecdotal; it’s backed by science. Walking outdoors exposes you to sunlight and nature, both known mood boosters. The rhythmic movement of walking can also induce a meditative state, calming the mind and fostering a sense of peace.
Improved Cognitive Function: Your brain thrives on oxygen and glucose, and walking delivers both in abundance. Regular walking has been linked to sharper cognitive function, including better memory, enhanced creativity, and improved problem-solving skills. So, if you’re feeling mentally sluggish, a brisk walk might be just what the doctor ordered.
Social Connection: Humans are social creatures, and walking provides an excellent opportunity for connection. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll with a friend or joining a local walking group, the camaraderie of companionship can alleviate loneliness and cultivate a sense of belonging. Plus, sharing stories and laughter along the way can lighten the load of any mental burdens you may carry.
Sleep Quality: If you struggle to get a good night’s sleep, lace up your walking shoes. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, can improve sleep quality and help regulate your circadian rhythm.
Now that we’ve uncovered the mental health benefits of walking, it’s time to take action. This National Walking Month, we encourage you to embark on your own walking journey. Whether it’s a solitary stroll through your neighbourhood or joining a local walking group, the first step is often the hardest. But remember, every step forward is a step towards a healthier mind.
If you’re not sure where to start, below is a few suggestions on getting moving either on your own as a first step or joining up with a welcoming group of people to enjoy some Talk with your Walk!
Going it Alone
Sometimes, when we’re struggling with our mental health, meeting a new group of people can seem to daunting but there’s lots of ways you can start your journey solo and build up your confidence and fitness!
Walking Indoors
Whilst you don’t get the sunshine (or rain!) boost, just moving is still good for your Mind, but it’s a little dull to just March on the spot so why not connect up to some of the fab sessions free of charge on YouTube. You can pick how many steps you want to do or an amount of time and get going. Walk at Home have some great uplifting videos to suit all abilities https://www.youtube.com/@LeslieSansonesWalkatHome
Follow a trail map
Scarborough Trails have some fantastic short walks around our area with simple instructions and bits of local trivia. The PDF trails are available to download below; or why not try “Treasure Trails” and solve some puzzles whilst you’re out and about! Although there is a cost, you could always find others to swap with: https://www.treasuretrails.co.uk
Scarborough Trails
Join the worlds largest treasure hunt!
If walking purposelessly isn’t for you and you’ve a nose for treasure, why not join the Geocaching Community. With just an app, you can join millions of others hunting for cache’s and logging your finds whilst getting your steps in! There’s hundreds of cache’s hidden across our area as well as around the world. Be warned… it’s addictive! https://www.geocaching.com
Joining Others
SWR Mind
Mental Health Awareness Week – Gentle Walk and Talk from Peasholm café, Tuesday 14th 3-4pm
Carers Plus Stepping Out
14/05 – Wykeham Lakes – YO13 9RA
21/05 – The Mere, Scarborough – YO11 2YN
28/05 – Peasholm Park, Meet at Buttercup Kiosk
We will meet 10.15am to begin walking at 10.30am
Survivors
Wednesday Feel Good Walk from the centre at 1.30pm
Charity 10K Walk, Wednesday 15th May, Spa to Sea Life and back again. 1pm.
Pickering Mindful Mile
The Mindful Mile take place every Saturday at 9.30am at Pickering Community Park AkA Woodlands park. Facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092999526977
Looking for something regular?
Why not try the Ramblers, your local U3A or a self-organised group such as Scarborough Walking Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/144725199422808) or the North Yorkshire Moors and Coast Walking Group on Meetup https://www.meetup.com/whitby-yorkshire-north-york-moors-walking-hiking-group
