Effects of combining physical activity with psychotherapy on mental health and well-being: A systematic review

Objective : Despite a vast evidence-base advocating the psychological benefits of physical activity, relatively little is understood about how combining physical activity with psychological therapies may influence these positive effects. The aim of this paper is to systematically analyse evidence from studies adopting a combined approach, and identify potential mechanisms of action on clinical outcomes. Methods : The Embase, PsycINFO and Medline (PubMed and OVID) databases were searched for applicable trials published up to December 2018. Relevant data was extracted from eligible studies, and the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) tool was utilised to objectively assess the quality of each study. Results : Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria, seven of which were rated as methodologically `strong'. Combining physical activity with psychological therapy consistently engendered positive effects on outcomes compared with treatment as usual. Similar improvements in psychological outcomes were observed in most (7/8) groups receiving physical activity alone. Increased levels of physical activity were observed in psychologically-informed interventions, however this effect was unrelated to changes in psychological outcomes. Limitations : Clinical and methodological heterogeneity precluded meta-analyses of results, while risk of bias detected in the studies may compromise overall validity of the findings. Conclusions : Physical activity interventions may be a viable alternative to psychological therapies, provided psychological approaches are incorporated into the implementation design (i.e. behavioural activation). Improved psychological outcomes may be observed regardless of `dose' received, however further research is required to ascertain whether psychosocial mechanisms of change mediate positive effects

“Doing” gardening and “being” at the allotment site: exploring the benefits of allotment gardening for stress reduction and healthy aging

The purpose of this study was to investigate the benefits to health and well-being of allotment gardening (in Wales, UK) in a community-dwelling older adult sample, with a particular emphasis on stress recovery. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore allotment gardener participants' personal beliefs and ideas of the benefits of their allotment gardening activity. The transcribed interviews were examined using thematic analysis. It was assumed that through the discussion of positive aspects of allotment gardening it would be possible to clarify specific benefits that relate to coping with stress in order to further an understanding of the mechanisms involved. Findings indicate that allotment gardeners appreciate both “doing” gardening activity as well as “being” at the allotment landscape for affording a wide range of benefits to their health and well-being. These benefits are discussed with reference to existing theory and research, including links to stress reduction

Allotment gardening and other leisure activities for stress reduction and healthy aging

This study explored the potential benefits of allotment gardening for healthy aging, focusing on the opportunities for outdoor physical activity, social support, and contact with nature that allotment gardening provides. Participants included 94 individuals aged between 50 and 88 years who were members of various indoor and outdoor activity groups. The participants completed physiological measures and psychometric scales of self-rated health, perceived stress, physical activity level, and perceived social support. A significant difference in perceived stress levels was observed between the activity groups. Allotment gardeners reported significantly less perceived stress than participants of indoor exercise classes (P < 0.05). As there were no significant differences in reported levels of social support and physical activity, explanations for the allotment gardeners' lower stress levels focus on the potential contribution of engagement with nature and psychological restoration. These findings represent a step toward understanding the benefits of allotment gardening activity as a health-promoting behavior in later life

The Psychology Of Lifestyle: Promoting Healthy Behaviour:Promoting healthy behaviour

Improving lifestyles is thought to be one of the most effective means of reducing mortality and morbidity in the developed world. However, despite decades of health promotion, there has been no significant difference to lifestyles and instead there are rising levels of inactivity and obesity. The psychology of lifestyle addresses the role psychology can play in reversing the trend of deleterious lifestyle choices. It considers the common characteristics of lifestyle behaviors and reflects on how we can inform and improve interventions to promote healthy lifestyles. Health promotion has taught people what a healthy lifestyle is—now we need to enable people to live that life. The chapters cover key lifestyle behaviors that impact on health—eating, physical activity, drinking, smoking, sex and drug use—as well as combinations of behaviors. Each chapter contains interventions that have been developed to influence and promote lifestyle change among patients and clients. This unique book will enable readers to develop a clear theoretical and practical grasp of the psychological principles involved in all aspects of lifestyle change. It is a useful resource for students and professionals committed to health promotion within all health-related disciplines

“Doing” Gardening and “Being” at the Allotment Site: Exploring the Benefits of Allotment Gardening for Stress Reduction and Healthy Aging

The purpose of this study was to investigate the benefits to health and well-being of allotment gardening (in Wales, UK) in a community-dwelling older adult sample, with a particular emphasis on stress recovery. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore allotment gardener participants' personal beliefs and ideas of the benefits of their allotment gardening activity. The transcribed interviews were examined using thematic analysis. It was assumed that through the discussion of positive aspects of allotment gardening it would be possible to clarify specific benefits that relate to coping with stress in order to further an understanding of the mechanisms involved. Findings indicate that allotment gardeners appreciate both “doing” gardening activity as well as “being” at the allotment landscape for affording a wide range of benefits to their health and well-being. These benefits are discussed with reference to existing theory and research, including links to stress reduction