What are the psychological benefits of walking?

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  1. Dr. Michael Roizen
     
    Dr. Michael Roizen answered:
    You will benefit from walking 30 minutes a day not only for the physical effects, but also (even more so, actually) for the psychological effects. Remember what self-esteem comes from: the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve goals? Walking accomplishes both. Walk for 30; it's easy, do-able, and maintainable—and it's a first step back into the game of life. A lot of people feel they haven't earned the right to lose weight. Walking every day earns you that right, and telling someone about it helps you feel proud of your accomplishment.

    Picture of man walking

    More Related Answers from Dr. Michael Roizen
    You will benefit from walking 30 minutes a day not only for the physical effects, but also (even more so, actually) for the psychological effects. Remember what self-esteem comes from: the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve goals? Walking... More
  2. Dr. Michelle Cleere - Sharecare Fitness Expert
     
    Walking has similar benefits as any exercise: increased energy, improved mood, more clear thought process, better sleep, better equipped to deal with anxiety and stress. Exercise and walking really are beneficial in helping people be productive, productive for longer periods of time.
    Walking has similar benefits as any exercise: increased energy, improved mood, more clear thought process, better sleep, better equipped to deal with anxiety and stress. Exercise and walking really are beneficial in helping people be productive,... More
  3.  Jeremiah Forster
     

    I am answering purely from a personal side but I believe being outside in the sun improves your mood, I believe being inside all the time just watching TV can lead to a decreased mood.

    Once a week we have family day and just spend the day together.  If we stay inside all day we tend to feel a bit depressed, tired and by the end of day almost the feeling of not accomplishing much.  However, if we hang out at home, watch some movies and simply get outside for an hour or two and walk and play we feel better.  We feel better, more energized and feel as though we actually accomplished something that day.

    Not being a psychologist I can only speak from a personal side.  I know personally if I am outside doing things I feel better and have more energy.  I tell all my clients, get outside and do something, just trust me you will feel better.

    More Related Answers from Jeremiah Forster
    I am answering purely from a personal side but I believe being outside in the sun improves your mood, I believe being inside all the time just watching TV can lead to a decreased mood. Once a week we have family day and just spend the day together.... More
  4.  Ali Shifaqat
     
    Ali Shifaqat answered:
    There is absolutely no better and easy low impact aerobic ecercise then Walking.Its an excellent exercise and can be full of fun for all age groups and fitness level.Just 30min/day of walking can lead to increase energy, better mood and self-esteem.It increases natural painkilling endorphins to the body.So lets walk and take extra step every day for better health."You can if you are willing to help yourself".
    More Related Answers from Ali Shifaqat
    There is absolutely no better and easy low impact aerobic ecercise then Walking.Its an excellent exercise and can be full of fun for all age groups and fitness level.Just 30min/day of walking can lead to increase energy, better mood and... More
  5.  Lin Federici
     
    One of the questions I ask of people in treatment for depression and who may have suicidal ideation at times is what they can do for themselves when their own early warning signs of suicidality develop.  One of the number one answers is, "Go for a walk."  The psychological benefits of walking are tremendous and increase self-confidence, energy, self-esteem and reduction of feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.
    More Related Answers from Bayview Center for Mental Health, Inc.
    One of the questions I ask of people in treatment for depression and who may have suicidal ideation at times is what they can do for themselves when their own early warning signs of suicidality develop.  One of the number one answers is, "Go... More
  6.  Jonathan Penney
     

    Walking will help boost your self-esteem and make you feel better on a daily basis.  Walking is one of the easiest forms of exercise and one of the best forms to for someone to get started with.  No matter what your fitness level may be, you are surely able to get up and go out for a 30-minute walk.  Our bodies thrive from exercise and yours will as well.  Get up, get out, and get walking, your body will thank you and you will feel better!

    More Related Answers from National Academy of Sports Medicine
    Walking will help boost your self-esteem and make you feel better on a daily basis.  Walking is one of the easiest forms of exercise and one of the best forms to for someone to get started with.  No matter what your fitness level may be,... More