Polonsky was talking about depression because people with diabetes are almost twice as likely to develop a serious problem with depression as people who don’t have diabetes.

Pay attention if you’re feeling depressed. Depression causes fatigue and “what’s the use!” blues, lethargy or joyless living, poor concentration at work or school, neglect of friends, over- or under-eating, interrupted sleep…and the list goes on. These side effects sabotage good glucose control. Feeling depressed zaps the body of strength and endurance.

If you are feeling depressed, be sure and talk with your doctor as your medications may not be interacting well together. Or, you may find a referral to cognitive therapy useful to feel better. Or, an anti-depressant medication may help your body chemistry adjust itself.

So what does the current research say is the best exercise for depression, Dr. Polonsky?

“Any exercise that takes place out-of-doors.”

I smile to myself. I knew there was a good reason that I’m allergic to lycra and gyms, although I belong to a gym and use it in bad weather. I do prefer to be outside inhaling nature on the bike trail. And, the payoff has been that this is a particularly spectacular autumn in Ohio. The hardwood trees are ablaze in scarlet, orange and gold. I love hearing the rustle of leaves under my tires. A few leaves often get caught in the spokes and hum a ragtag, parade tune. All this is music to my eyes and ears.

Nature lover, John Muir said, “Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine into flowers, the winds will blow their freshness into you, and the storms, their energy and cares will drop off like autumn leaves.” What a lovely truth! May you find joy in being out-of-doors breathing in nature’s gifts, automatically lifting your spirits.