Nordic walking at Fukushima - some outcomes

I posted earlier about Nordic walking as one of the activities used to help rebuild a community's emotional health. Here is a statement from one of the Red Cross workers about the outcomes of the activity as people engaged in it:

“When some of the participants first joined us, they showed obvious signs of depression,” explained Mr. Mitachi.  “After attending a few sessions, they started looking happy and were full of energy. It not only makes people feel better mentally it also greatly improves their general health. The vigorous exercise works the pain out of their joints. Using the poles softens up their stiff backs and shoulders.”

See more at: http://www.ifrc.org/en/news-and-media/news-stories/asia-pacific/japan/nordic-walking-helps-survivors-of-the-great-east-japan-earthquake-and-tsunami-cope-with-trauma-and-depression-71996/#sthash.ISBTvBnG.dpuf

Nordic walking was also highlighted in a 5-year progress report for its positive contributions to psychosocial wellbeing.