Outdoor pathways improve people’s mental wellbeing
W
e are increasingly coming to understand that mental wellbeing is strongly shaped by social and physical environments, says a recent report from NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi around the relationship between transport and mental health. Our changing transport environment brings with it different challenges for our mental health and wellbeing. Positive transport systems for mental health include: * Reducing long commutes * Increasing active commuting and * Walkable environments. Not everyone can get active in our everyday commute, but most people can get outside in between work hours to change our environment. Physical activity releases endorphins into our blood stream, whether that’s walking, cycling, mountain biking, horse riding or dog walking. Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers. They are our ‘feel good’ emotion after being active. Physical activity also improves muscle and heart function, increases
Physical activity also has a variety of psychological benefits. It can: * Promote a sense of positive By Olivia Murray achievement NZ Walking Access Commission * Improve self-esteem * Give you a sense of control over blood flow to the brain and increases your life the efficiency of brain chemicals. Not * Help with weight control to mention, it can help us to get a * Provide opportunities for socialgood night’s sleep. ising and making new friends.
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Walking New Zealand, issue no 282 - 2021
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