Vol. 16 No. 1 (2024): Mental Health & Wellbeing
Blogs

Walking for mental health and well-being

Nandini Chakraborty
Leicester Mental Health Partnerships, Leicester, UK
Bio

Published 2024-03-06

Keywords

  • mental health,
  • wellbeing,
  • walking

How to Cite

Chakraborty, N. (2024). Walking for mental health and well-being. Sushruta Journal of Health Policy & Opinion, 16(1). https://doi.org/10.38192/16.1.10

Abstract

Walking is one of the easiest ways to keep healthy and well. It does not require
technical skill or complex equipment. It can be fitted in flexibly into personal
routines. It is a low impact activity, both on the pocket and the knees but deep
in its positive impact on both mind and body. It fosters a touch with nature and
builds spaces for reflection and self-discovery. It can be done solo, in families,
with friends or colleagues. It is possible to start out with short trails and
extend horizons gradually.
This article shares stories from personal and professional experiences. As a
psychiatrist, I could not recommend walking enough, for the extensive
benefits it can have on people’s lives both physically and mentally.

References

  1. Kelly P, Williamson C, Niven AG, et al. Walking on sunshine: scoping review of the evidence for walking and mental health; British Journal of Sports Medicine 2018;52:800-806.