Keeping the body active is essential to keep the body fit and healthy. To keep the body fit, people work out in the gym, do yoga and meditation and most of the people go for walks. You know that walking is a very effective means of keeping the body active. Daily walking keeps the body fit, improves blood circulation and keeps the heart healthy. Walking 40 minutes daily is very important. You know that walking not only affects your body, but also affects your mental health.
A recent study conducted in 2024 proved that daily walking cures diseases like depression. According to research, just walking 5,000 steps a day can significantly reduce the risk of depression. Let’s find out what is the connection between depression and walking and how walking 5,000 steps proves to be magical.
What is the connection between depression and walking?
Depression is a disease of worldwide concern, affecting millions of people. According to WHO data, around 280 million people worldwide are currently suffering from depression. According to research, taking a daily walk can control the symptoms of depression. A meta-analysis of 33 studies involving more than 96,000 adults showed that people who walked at least 5,000 steps a day had fewer symptoms of depression than those who walked less. Walking releases endorphin hormones which are the body’s natural mood boosters. Regular walking also reduces stress chemicals like cortisol, leading to a more balanced mental state.
Why is 5000 steps the magic number?
Taking enough walks daily improves mental condition. Walking 10,000 steps a day is essential for health. According to research, if you want to improve your mental health or treat depression, 5000 steps a day is enough. Research participants who walked 5,000 to 7,499 steps daily saw a reduction in depressive symptoms. According to research, if you take a brisk walk for 30 to 40 minutes every day, your mental state is better.
What effect does walking have on the brain?
Walking not only improves your mood, but it also affects the way your brain works. Regular walking improves blood circulation which keeps the brain healthy. Daily walking helps in the formation of new brain cells. These physiological changes help fight depression and improve general cognitive function. Doing outdoor activities exposes the body to natural sunlight which regulates your sleep cycle. Walking helps deal with seasonal mood swings.