Exercise is an incredible medicine that can improve all facets of our lives.

“Various exercise modalities are effective (walking, jogging, mixed aerobic exercise, strength training, yoga, tai chi, qigong) and well tolerated (especially strength training and yoga)
Effects appeared proportional to the intensity of exercise prescribed and were stronger for group exercise and interventions with clear prescriptions
Preliminary evidence suggests interactions between types of exercise and patients’ personal characteristics”

What does this mean?

It doesn’t have to be one type of exercise
You can fit the exercise type to the individuals preference (“the best exercise is the one you’ll do”)
Clear and objective exercise routines are better and safer
Exercising with other people is good for our mental health
The harder it is (intensity), the greater the effect

Of course, mental health is a complex issue and should be taken seriously.

But it’s good to know that a walk in the woods can help people avoid medications.

https://www.bmj.com/content/384/bmj-2023-075847

*If you are struggling with depression, reach out to a mental health professional for help