Mental Health Awareness Week 2022 takes place from the 9th to the 15th of May, providing an opportunity to highlight what we can do to make mental health care a reality for everyone. Anxiety is affecting more and more of us in the UK, leaving a huge impact on our day-to-day lives. Our connection to people and feeling part of a community is fundamental to protecting our mental health, yet it’s something we haven’t all been able to experience for the last couple of years. Joining a walking community, like parkrun for instance, is a powerful way to take back control of our mental health and lessen feelings of loneliness. We explore more on why walking benefits our mind’s wellbeing in this article.

Makes us feel calmer

Walking helps with our ability to deal with anxiety by increasing concentrations of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter (chemical) that helps moderate the brain's response to stress. As part of this response, norepinephrine affects how the brain pays attention and responds to situations, releasing a chemical that makes us feel calmer. Without it, low levels of norepinephrine could potentially lead to depression and hypotension (extremely low blood pressure).

Gives us an achievement

In 2017, a review of research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that professional athletes and nonathletes, such as recreational runners, experienced no difference in anxiety symptoms. Runners of all levels have been affected by anxiety, with elite athletes such as Olympian Simone Biles speaking publicly about her struggles. While walking can't cure anxiety, it can temporarily lift anxious feelings. By going on regular walks, you can set yourself a physical goal, such as walking a certain distance or participating in a community walk. The euphoria of accomplishing that goal increases self-confidence and releases those feel-good endorphins.

Boosts Our Brain Performance

A form of cardiovascular exercise, walking is known to promote neurogenesis which is the birth of new brain cells. The hippocampus is a specific region in the brain where new brain cells grow by exercising. Taking a brisk walk also increases levels of a brain-derived protein in the hippocampal region, believed to support vital brain functions such as decision-making and higher thinking. While the release of dopamine and other endorphins are known to be the immediate benefit of exercise, the impact on cognitive health is even more important in the long term.

parkrun: The Free Active Event for Everyone, Forever

There’s nothing like going for a walk, jog, or a run with others around to cheer you on. Events like parkrun are the perfect way to take care of your mental wellbeing whilst making meaningful connections with new like-minded people. The most prominent benefit to gain from joining a community is the motivation and support you receive from each other. Since being founded by Paul Sinton-Hewitt in 2004, parkrun has become a phenomenal active movement worldwide. parkrun events offer a positive, welcoming, and inclusive experience where you can go at your own pace, and you don’t have to worry about reaching the finish line. If you're curious about joining, you can find a parkrun event in your local area here: https://www.parkrun.org.uk/events

Recommended by parkrun, iPRO Hydrate is the drink of choice for healthy hydration. Right now, you can purchase a multi-pack with 25% off when you order through iPRO.Run!