[Feynman]

Want to feel better? Some research suggests that exercising helps lift depression. Would anyone like to try it with me? We could talk about our results on the forum after we exercised each day for a few weeks.

From Psychological Self-Help by Clayton E. Tucker-Ladd:

</font><blockquote><div id="quote"><font class="small">Quote:</font>
Exercise promises long-lasting results. In just the last couple of years, there have been a couple of interesting studies showing that an aerobic exercise program--stationary cycling or treadmill--for 30 minutes 3 times a week reduced major depression as much or more than medication (Zoloft). After 16 weeks, the remission rate was 60% for both groups, but at follow up after another 6 months the exercise group had a higher recovery rate (than the drug group) and they were less likely to relapse (8% vs. 38% in the Zoloft group). The subjects in this study were middle-aged or older (Babyak, et al, 2000). Be sure to check with your doctor first, but exercise would be good for you in many ways, not just with depression. Seriously consider this. Even more recently, other studies report that daily exercise reduces depression by 1/3 or 1/2 within 10 days, that is faster than most people respond to anti-depressive medications.

The data keeps coming in. Please pay attention to this. Another well done study (Trivedi, M. , January, 2005, American Journal of Preventive Medicine) shows that exercise alone three or five times a week for 30 minutes reduces depression by about 50%. That is as good as taking antidepressants or as good as getting Cognitive-Behavioral psychotherapy. The study observed mild to moderately depressed 20 to 45-year-olds.

</div></font></blockquote><font class="post">

Saafir
<font color="red"> Check out the original article here </font>

Did anyone every tell you that in such a short time you have become a great asset to these forums? Thanks for this post.

Ry

[Nerak]

I agree - when I am more active my depression lessens.

[silver_queen]

I think even getting out of the house for a few minutes for a quick walk to a shop or something helps. I know that even when I've been out on a 10-minute walk to the supermarket and back, my mood is lighter for the rest of the day.

I'd be happy to join you in an exercise program.....I live across the street from a park and there is a good walking trail here.....plus I have Fayeroe, wonder dog goddess, who can drag me around by the creek..she weighs 70 lbs and is quite strong.....let me know about checking in ad reporting mu progress. pat

[cat_eye]

indeed it does help! I play Dance Dance Revolution a lot, and I really am liking tae-bo.

[Feynman]

Ha Ha! I exercised today! For the first time in MONTHS. I walked for forty-five minutes while I talked on the phone to family. It feels good to get the blood flowing, stretch out the limbs, and breath some deep breaths. I discovered now nice some of the neighborhoods around my house are.

[CedarS]

I'm just back from my walk, cool post to find! Yeah, I'm in, we all can support each other as we work on making a habit of healthy exercise.

A brisk walk is wonderful, once I toss myself outside I find all sorts of rewards. I recently splurged big time and bought myself an iPod shuffle, I load it up with inspiring music and go.

I live in a not all that great apartment complex, but right behind us is a nice residential neighborhood full of tended yards and gardens. All manner of flowers now in bloom or about to bloom. Some folks have artistic wind chimes and yard sculptures and tree houses too.

When I walk, so much negative thinking just falls away. Suddenly it doesn't matter. What does matter is that I am alive, the air feels good, I am moving through space, and there is so much inspiration all around.

[Feynman]

Nice work Sarah. I haven't exercised since Thursday, but it's a new week and I have plans for walking tonight.

<font color="red">Anyone else exercising today? I highly recommend it. </font>

Saafir

[Parker10]

It rained 2 days since I started walking - and I didnt do it - but got it done yesterday and today - the first day I walked I wore shorts and it was great. yesterday and today - winter coat and sweat pants ! YUCKKY weather ! I agree about just seeing the flowers and trees budding, blooming, turning green.......it just makes me feel good ! I live in the boondocks, plenty of places to walk - on the road , thru the fields, or the long driveway back to my son's "soon to be house". I take my 2 Jack Russells with me when I am not going on the road, and we have a great time. Great idea doing this as a group !

[silver_queen]

I've been getting outside more and therefore walking more these past few days, since the weather is so nice here. it's blue skies, sunny and warm, and it's really pleasant to be out walking!