Why Walking Works- Better Health & Happiness

Feeling a bit side-ways this week? Not on your A-game emotionally? Science says a brisk walk can help…

Studies show active folks see the glass as half full, even after they’re done sweating.

A number of past studies have noted that physically active people have much lower risks of developing depression and anxiety than people who rarely move.

It happens this way: exercise increases blood flow to our brains, lifts our moods, forms new neurons, and releases some vital brain chemicals as endorphin. Of all the ways that give us a rush of happiness while we exercise, this neurochemical mechanism comes first.

John Ratey, the world-famous exercise researcher, says, “Exercise generates the release of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Exercise increases the brain’s learning and memory capacities. People’s mood significantly increased after exercising.”

Not only does working out boost the brain’s serotonin levels, regular exercise might actually remodel the brain, making it calmer and more stress resistant. And, of course, we must talk of the role played by endorphins. Endorphins release…