Although the sun is still out, I think it is finally starting to feel a bit more like fall. The leaves are starting to change color and fall from the sky, the air is a bit more crisp in the morning, and the stress to find the perfect Halloween costume is becoming more and more urgent. With that being said, my previous methods of managing mental health, such as swimming, are probably not as appealing anymore. While you can still go for a quick swim or hike if needed, a walk is something that is a bit more simple and easier to do regardless of the weather.

Walking is something that for me, has been my go to when I feel anxious. When I first was diagnosed with anxiety and depression my doctors and councilors and I went through a process of finding some ways to help reduce some of these symptoms. While I tried a few, I found myself consistently going back to walking. While most exercise reduces anxiety as well as other health issues, going on a brisk walk even for just 10-15 minutes at time as opposed to vigorous exercise has been proven to significantly alleviate anxiety (Edwards et al, 2017).

The benefit of walking is that you can cater it to your needs. You control how far and how long you walk. I am fortunate to be surrounded by several trails near my house which means that I get to enjoy some lovely scenery while I walk. While having a nice walking spot is always a bonus, as long as it’s safe, it doesn’t really have to look nice. There have been several times where I just did laps around a soccer field because that was the only location available to me at the time. Regardless of where you go, you are still going outside, getting fresh air, and giving your mind a bit of a break.

As with most of the methods I have presented so far in this inquiry, when going on walks, make sure that you are being smart and being safe. If you are anxious and need/want to try going for a walk ask a friend, roommate, or someone you trust to walk with you. Again, this does not have to be a long walk. Even a short 10 minute walk can be so beneficial. If you plan on walking at night, bring a flashlight or your phone, as well as wear clothing that is visible to vehicles and to ensure you are seen by all drivers. Don’t go down sketchy paths/trails at night, when possible try and stay on main roads, and map put your route before leaving. All of these sound pretty straightforward but are important in order to make sure this is effective and not causing you any more stress than you may already be dealing with.

As the leaves continue to fall I encourage you to go outside and enjoy the colorful season. To make it more fun, look for Halloween decorations and see what houses went all out. If you are doing this near Christmas, you can do this with Christmas lights and Christmas decorations. I encourage anyone who may struggle with anxiety/mental health, as well as anyone who is wanting to go out more, to just plan out time in your day to go outside for a few minutes and enjoy a nice little walk.

Reference:

Edwards, M., Rosenbaum, S., & Loprinzi, P. D. (2017, December 7). Conducting safe research with at-risk populations … – sage journals. Sage Journals. Retrieved October 12, 2022, from https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1473325014538995?casa_token=yvgNAq8OuzgAAAAA%3AN5fx8Co_19URPb_rgBLw4wAIxud3Z6JX2lEmZmel26pm_oRWsuxb0Ad7GjtZG-WSY1r5VogyEr7G