It is generally agreed that when we exercise our bodies produce endorphins which provides both psychological and physiological benefits for certain depression related conditions.

By benefits, studies highlight significant reductions in depression levels.

Relief from stress / depression is achievable through a wide range of exercises from gentle stretching to aerobics. From bungee jumping to love making. The list is seemingly endless.

It seems to be generally accepted that any form of exercise is better than none. Exercise gets our hearts beating faster  (aerobic exercise) this in turn gets those endorphins flowing and this serves to relieve stress.

Because of the litigation culture infiltrating our daily lives, I am required to suggest that we should all consult with our doctors prior to commencing on any physical exercise programme.

However do we really need a physical exercise programme? Walking is still ‘free’ and usually safe for anyone. It can be done with other people, a pet, or it can simply be done alone. Some people enjoy the solitude of walking alone. You can even walk without personal trainers, gymnasiums and state of the heart gadgets and the simply must have accessories.

Apparently, all we are required to do is get our hearts to beat a little faster for at least 15 minutes a day. Strangely enough, a brisk stroll here and there can itself be enough to provide significant stress relief and bring about an improvement in our overall health.

A WORD OF WARNING choose where you walk with caution. Walking the  ‘grim’ litter strewn / graffiti bedecked inner city badlands accompanied by the wailing of sirens and the gaze of a thousand potential muggers will undoubtedly get your heart beating faster - but it is not recommended.

If at all possible distance yourself from such depressing surroundings. Try to locate a nature trail, park, countryside walk, riverside or deserted stretch of coastline. A place free from sirens, car alarms, and a million and one other sounds which gradually grind you down. It is no surprise that expert opinion concludes that “natural surroundings trigger relaxation responses deep in the brain” Visualising yourself amid snow capped mountains, or watching a tropical sunset reflecting in the waves rolling over an unspoiled beach can have stress/depression relieving and calming effect.

It has also been noted that exposure to daylight also has positive effects on mood - another benefit of exercising outdoors. This is doubtless one of the main reasons that The Bahamas has possibly the world’s lowest suicide rate.

Other people need the stimulation of interacting with others, whether walking in a group, participating in a yoga class or other fitness class, or playing a sport such as tennis, racquetball, etc. Interacting with other people during exercise can provide additional stress relief.