by Tammy Stoner

Created on: January 13, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Walking is a phenomenal stress reducer, and as a psychiatric social worker, I frequently recommend it to depressed, and anxious patients. Its free, doesn't cost a dime, and in the economic climate of today, few activities, provide as much benefit as walking, at such a low cost.

Walking gets a person moving, and does help a person become happier. That's because walking helps to release endorphins, a chemical that helps stimulate the mental outlook. When you walk, you will gain an instant improvement in mood.

The most difficult part of walking is getting started. It can help to establish a walking buddy, somebody who will walk with you. Walking together improves relationships, as its natural to have conversations, while walking together. Walking with another can help you stay motivated to continue walking. Creating a walking buddy, can aid you in staying motivated to keep walking.

A dog can be a great walking companion, and when walking with a dog, you are sure to meet others, with dogs. Even those without dogs, will stop and chat with you. Creating connections while walking assists in stress relief.

Once somebody begins walking, they receive multiple health benefits. First, the cardiovascular system gets a workout. Walking increases the blood flow, and people who walk become smarter. Tests conducted with people over age 60, demonstrated that a 15- minute walk a day actually sharpened mental skills.

Walking reduces the risk of breast, and colon cancer, type two diabetes, and strengthens bones and muscles. And, as if that isn't enough, it strengthens the heart, reducing the risk of heart attacks, in both men and women. There is no doubt about it, walking helps improve mind, body, and spirit.

Walking gives you time to think, and is an opportunity to clear the mind of clutter. After walking, those problems just might turn into possibilities.

When walking, be sure to "stop and smell the roses." Take time to notice flowers and trees, the sky, and remember to breathe the fresh air. You may be surprised at the things you notice walking, that are overlooked, when driving in the car.

The mental health instantly improves, as breathing fresh air, quickly improves mood, and offers instant stress relief. Before popping a pill, talking to a therapist, try taking a walk. Research has demonstrated a decrease in depressive symptoms in people who engage in walking a half hour a day, a couple of days a week.

A daily brisk walk helps reduce pounds, clears the mind, and offers instant stress reduction. If you would like to add a challenge to the walk, try walking up and down steps, as this will enhance the cardiovascular system. It adds a healthy challenge to the walk.

There is no doubt about it, walking is a great benefit to the mind, body and soul. When you want to see immediate improvement, take up walking. The best things in life are free, and walking is proof.

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