5 Mental Health Benefits of Walking You Didn’t Know
- Maz Miller
- Jun 12
- 2 min read
Walking is often praised for its physical benefits, but its impact on mental health is just as powerful – and sometimes overlooked. Whether you’re strolling through a park or pacing your backyard, incorporating walking into your routine can have a profound effect on your mood, focus, and overall wellbeing. Here are five mental health benefits of walking you might not know about.
1. It Boosts Your Mood in Just Minutes
Research from Harvard Health shows that just 10 minutes of walking can improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Walking stimulates the release of endorphins and serotonin, two of the brain's "feel-good" chemicals that naturally lift your spirits.
2. It Lowers Stress and Cortisol Levels
Feeling overwhelmed? Walking, especially in nature, helps reduce cortisol – the hormone associated with stress. Regular walking gives your nervous system a break, helping you reset mentally and physically.
3. It Improves Focus and Creativity
Studies by Stanford University have shown that walking boosts creativity and cognitive function. If you’re stuck in a mental loop or struggling with decision fatigue, movement can spark clarity and new ideas.
4. It Helps You Sleep Better
Physical activity during the day, even something as simple as a walk, contributes to better sleep at night. Better sleep leads to improved emotional regulation, making it easier to manage your mental health daily.
5. It Creates Space for Reflection and Processing
When paired with therapy, walking can help you process emotions in a more integrated way. The rhythmic motion supports bilateral brain activity, which aids emotional processing – similar to EMDR therapy used in trauma treatment.
Take the first step – your phone session can begin on your next walk. Book a session with a psychologist or download our free Walking Journal to get started.
Walking Session – therapy that moves with you.
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