PEOPLE are being advised to put their best foot forward to help relive the symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression.

Health advisors with NHS Somerset are working with Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and other community organisations to promote physical activity as a means of improving mental well-being.

Around 30 ‘Soul Walks’ will be taking place around Somerset throughout September and October to encourage people affected by mental ill health.

The walks are designed for everyone irrespective of their fitness.

Dr Caroline Gamlin, director of public health with NHS Somerset, said: “Everyone knows that brisk walking strengthens the heart and lungs and helps to combat physical problems such as high blood pressure.

“But just as important are the benefits it brings to the mind.

“Things such as dealing with negative emotions, reducing stress and depression, helping you sleep better at night, boosting energy levels and helping you feel better about yourself as you lose weight, change body shape and feel more muscle tone.

“It has been clinically shown that physical activity can have a beneficial effect on mild to moderate depression, and in many cases could be as effective as medication or therapy.”

The ‘Soul Walks’ walks are free and open to anyone.

The first walks are on Tuesday, from Goodland Gardens, Taunton, at 10.30am, and Barbarians Rugby Club, Minehead at 10am.