Experiencing troublesome perimenopause symptoms? This daily 30-minute exercise may offer relief – read about my personal experience.
Getting outdoors for a walk has a Special Magic that an indoor gym can't replicate. As a kid, books and stories were my Jam, not basketballs and footballs. But lacing up a pair of comfortable walking shoes and going for a stroll has always been a soothing activity for me.
However, a tough stretch last year left my sports gear collecting dust. With my mental health in a rut due to hormonal changes, I set myself a modest Challenge: walk for 30 minutes a day for two weeks.
My Mental Health was a Roller Coaster ride, but I found that the peace I felt was dependent on my surroundings. In the heart of nature, my mind was as clear as a mountain stream, calmer and lighter. However, walking the busy city streets, the traffic noise and cacophony of urban life left my anxiety heightened.
This isn't just anecdotal. A recent study in Current Psychology supports my findings. Nature-based walking could potentially improve mental health, boost mood, and reduce anxiety while easing intrusive thoughts[1].
As for sleep, an unforeseen perk, I've always had a good night's rest. It wasn't until my urban jungle nuptials that sleep became an Occasional Struggle. Luckily, my daily walks brought a noticeable improvement in the quality and quantity of my ZZZs[1].
There were days I just wanted to Stay in bed, but I forced myself to walk. Putting one foot in front of the other wasn't easy, but it always felt rewarding. Watching the spring blossoms, watching trees bloom, listening to the birds chirping, provided a Daily Dose of Nature's Medicine, a tonic for my weary soul.
Walking has not been the Miracle Solution to all my problems, but it has helped rekindle my Love for the great outdoors. I've learned that no matter how tough life gets, I can always put on my sneakers, step out into the fresh air, and find peace in the simple act of Walking.
PS: Remember to take a deep breath and relish the moment, because Health and Happiness are often found in the Beautiful Simplicity of Life.
Enrichment Data:- Mental Health: Walking in nature has been linked to a reduction in rumination and negative thinking, potentially lowering the risk of depression and anxiety[1][2].- Mood Boost: Physical activity like walking can trigger the release of brain chemicals that improve mood and reduce stress[3].- Sleep Improvement: Exposure to natural light during the day, which is often part of nature-based walks, can help regulate circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality[4][5].- Anxiety Reduction: Walking in nature can reduce cortisol levels and improve nervous system regulation, potentially helping to alleviate anxiety[5].- Calming Effects: The sights, sounds, and smells of nature have a calming effect on the brain and help reduce stress[5].- Emotional Well-being: Nature-based activities can support emotional well-being by providing a calming and restorative environment[5].
- Incorporating yoga into my health-and-wellness routine has also been beneficial for my mental health, as it promotes mindfulness and stress reduction.
- With menopause being a challenging phase for many women's health, finding time for daily fitness-and-exercise routines like yoga and nature-based walking can significantly improve overall well-being.
- The science behind the connection between nature and mental health suggests that there may be a link between walking in green spaces and improved mental health, as well as potential reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms.
- Investing in a pair of comfortable walking shoes suitable for urban settings also allows me to enjoy the calming effects of nature-based walks, even during busy city life, thereby contributing to my overall health-and-wellness.
