Sometimes, There Is A Better Way Than Antidepressants

In the United states as much as 20% percent of adults over 65 experience depression, and antidepressants are the most typical treatment method. However, research indicates that 10-20 minutes of exercising three times a week, especially cardiovascular exercise, is as effective as antidepressants for some individuals.

Not just depression, there are many other proven benefits to a regular cardio routine, such as reducing fatigue, erasing painful joints and muscles, and even helping you to sleep better. Recent studies by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) confirm that a 10-20 minute walk or mini-workout can improve sleep quality by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and promoting deeper rest.

The challenge of getting started

I have experienced and understand that depression can cause us to have low energy, appetite changes, body aches, sleep problems, and heightened pain. These symptoms can make it especially hard to feel motivated to do anything.

To gently break this cycle, I started with a short 15-minute stretching session a day. In less than two weeks, I began feeling better and started walking with Jean (my beautiful wife) about 3 days a week for just 20 minutes. Within another couple of weeks, we were walking for 30 minutes. almost every day.

It took a while, but now I am blessed to be able to regularly walk a couple of miles several times a week and build up my strength by going to the gym 3 times a week. Just a few days ago, we did a fun 3 1/2-mile run at Black Branch Creek in North Georgia.

Over the years, I have learned some short/easier stretching programs (AKA Flexibility Training). If you are sincerely interested in getting started, please feel free to email me at lastbestbite@gmail.com. I would love to help get you started.