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Walking for Your Mind and Spirit
Part 2: Walking Away the Blues

By Wendy Bumgardner, About.com

Updated November 13, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Walking and other exercise leads to the release of the body's natural happy drugs - endorphins. Walkers who walk at a higher heart rate will notice this effect more than those who walk at a slower heart rate pace. But even at a slower pace, most people notice an improvement in mood.

Many physicians recommend adding regular walking and exercise as a natural treatment to relieve a bout of depression. The cause of depression is related to brain chemistry. By getting your brain to release more of the happy chemicals - the endorphins - you achieve naturally what many prescription drugs and herbs try to do artificially.

Depression can be a serious and life-threatening disease, consult your health care provider if your mood is leading to problems in your life or if you have suicidal thoughts. Use walking as a part of effective treatment for mood disorders, which may include talk therapy and drugs.

Next Page >> Walking Away Stress

Related Sites

Depression
Mental Health

Reference

Depression and Anxiety: Exercise Eases Symptoms: MayoClinic.com
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