Every year 1 in 5 Canadians will experience some form of mental illness in their life time. While every Canadian will
be indirectly affected by it at least once in their life time whether it is through family, friends, or coworkers.
October 1st is the start of Mental Health Awareness week, it is never too late to consider your mental health. Among the many strategies to help cope with mental illness and maintaining mental health is exercise.
A 2010 study found that individuals who participated in exercise outside showed significant improvements in self-esteem and overall mood (Environmental Science and Technology, 2010). In addition, there is also evidence supporting the beneficial effects and importance of social ties and interactions on mental health (Thiots, 2011).
Urban poling is a fantastic low intensity exercise that gives you the opportunity to connect with your community and create relationships with those who may be going through something similar. You can find out more about the many benefits of exercise and mental health in the SpeakUP Webinar with Dr. Sarah J Lord.