Anxiety, depression: when walking heals

Anxiety, depression: when walking heals

May 31, 2026

By Cecile Coumau THE Subscribers

Physical activity is recognized as a tool against depression. But not all activities have the same effects. Walking, with its moderate intensity, activates specific mechanisms – biological, cognitive, and sensory – that promote calmness and emotional regulation.

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The movement Walking has positive effects on our brain (here, a psychotherapeutic "walk and talk" session).

MATTHIEU RONDEL / HAND LUCAS FOR SCIENCE AND FUTURE

This item is taken from the monthly magazine Sciences et Avenir n°952, dated June 2026.

Record broken! On April 12, nearly 60,000 people were at the starting line of the Paris Marathon. And for half of them, it was their first time. Running has never had so many enthusiasts. At a time when sedentary lifestyles are responsible for 5.3 million deaths per year worldwide, who could complain about this trend? However, if the running While exercise is often touted as the recipe for well-being, another form of physical activity also deserves to be highlighted: walking.

To walk Psychology Mental health

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