New study highlights the mental health benefits of low-intensity activities like gardening and walking.Moderate physical activities, including gardening, walking, and golf, have been linked to a 23% lower risk of depression, according to new research. The umbrella review, which examined data from over four million people, found that low to moderate-intensity exercise can significantly reduce the risk of depression, anxiety, and psychosis.

Published in Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, the study also suggests that while moderate physical activity promotes mental well-being, high-intensity exercise could worsen stress-related responses in some individuals. The research, led by Professor Lee Smith from Anglia Ruskin University, underscores the importance of precise exercise guidelines tailored to individual needs.

The findings, consistent across gender and age groups, suggest that even small lifestyle changes involving moderate exercise can have a significant impact on mental health, providing a more accessible approach for those not ready to commit to high-intensity workouts.