Need2Know: Indoor pathways improve people’s

Outdoor pathways improve people’s mental

We 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 blood flow to the brain and increases the efficiency of brain chemicals. Not to mention, it can help us to get a good night’s sleep.

wellbeing 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 your life * Help with weight control * Provide opportunities for socialising and making new friends.

Having trouble buying your copy of Walking New Zealand magazine?

Have you found that?:

* Magazine is sold out when you get to the store! * Stores have limited space for magazines and some are cutting down on space for magazines

From now you will be able to buy a copy of Walking New Zealand magazine, for $8.50 POSTED to you each month at the same price that you would pay for it at a store.

You just pay a monthly payment of $8.50 per month. * No fixed term. * You can cancel at any time.

Each month we debit your credit card $8.50 and post you a copy of the latest issue - until cancelled. Just phone: 0800 walking (925-546) or email us walkingnz@xtra.co.nz with your credit card details, name and postal address.