The article reports on a large meta-analysis showing that people who walk more each day tend to have fewer depressive symptoms, with as few as 5,000 steps per day linked to improved mood and benefits increasing up to about 7,000–10,000 steps. According to the article, walking thus emerges as an accessible, effective way to reduce depressive symptoms — even modest step increases can make a meaningful difference.
Dr. Milica reports on why walking may boost mental health: she points out that walking’s rhythmic movement can help people enter a “flow state,” helping distract from negative thoughts, and the activation of large muscle groups (glutes, hamstrings, core, etc.) improves blood flow and body temperature, which together foster better mental well-being.