Exercise can be just as effective at easing symptoms of depression as antidepressants or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Research shows that light to moderate exercise is more effective than intense workouts for improving mood, largely because it’s easier to maintain, and consistency is key over the long term.

How Exercise Supports Wellbeing
Being active helps your mental health in multiple ways:

• Social connections: Exercising with others builds relationships and combats loneliness.
• Brain chemistry: Physical activity releases chemicals that can reduce inflammation linked to low mood.
• Cognitive benefits: Exercise encourages the growth of new brain cells, helping break negative thought patterns.

Pairing exercise with time in nature can amplify these effects.

Spending time outside has been shown to:

• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Lift mood
• Lower blood pressure
• Support gut health
• Boost confidence and self-esteem

Here in Yorkshire, we’re lucky to have two national parks and stunning landscapes right on our doorstep, making it easy to combine movement with the great outdoors.

Nature-Based Health Initiatives in North Yorkshire
Local projects are already helping people improve their health by connecting with nature:

– The Nature Prescription Project
GPs and social prescribers can offer a ‘nature prescription’, a calendar of simple, tailored outdoor activities. These can be done alone or in groups, helping people feel calmer, build confidence, and improve overall wellbeing.