Exercise and mental health are more connected than you might think.
We all know that exercising is good for our physical health, but did you know that it improves your mental health as well? Working out can improve your mood and sleep and help you overcome anxiety, depression, stress, and more.
Fitness isn’t just about building muscles. While many people exercise to improve their stamina, reduce their waistline, and remain young, there are things beyond your physique that can motivate people.
Anyone who exercises regularly will tell you that it gives their mental health a recharge. They feel simultaneously relaxed and more energetic as they go about their day, and they have better quality sleep and can better retain memories. On top of all this, they feel more positive and optimistic instead of worried and stressed.
Routine workouts can make a giant difference if you have anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Best of all? You don’t need to be a gym rat to reap these benefits. Studies show that low to moderate amounts of exercise can make all the difference. Being active can benefit anyone of any age or fitness level.
If you need more energy or a positive outlook on life, try working out!
Exercise and Mental Health: Depression
Research reveals that any amount of exercise can treat mild to moderate depression.
Studies show that exercise can treat mild to moderate depression as effectively as antidepressants. Plus, you won’t suffer any side effects!
For example, a study undertaken by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health showed that running for 15 minutes daily or walking for an hour can reduce the risk of severe depression by 26%.
There are several reasons why exercise is an effective agent against depression. First, it encourages neural growth in our brain and reduces inflammation. These actions help us feel positive, refreshed, and calm. Exercise also releases brain chemicals known as endorphins that help us feel good. Additionally, exercise helps us focus and meditate, breaking the cycle of negative thoughts.
Exercise and Mental Health: Anxiety
Exercise is a natural anti-anxiety remedy. It can help relieve stress and tension and improve your mental and physical energy—the release of endorphins functions to make you feel great. Instead of sitting and zoning out or watching TV, try moving around whenever you start feeling anxious.
Please pay attention to how it feels to move and run, how you breathe in the fresh air, and your body. Being mindful by focusing on the present moment allows you to block out anxious thoughts. Your body will feel good, but you can meditate as you work out.
Exercise and Mental Health: Stress
Think about how you physically feel when you’re stressed out. Your shoulders hunch muscles tense, jaw tightens, heart beats faster, and you may get headaches. On top of that, stress can lead to poor sleep, diarrhea, heartburn, and other physical symptoms. Being physically uncomfortable can lead to more stress.
A great way to break this vicious cycle is through exercise. The endorphins your brain releases relieve the tension in your body and relax your muscles. Your mind and body are closely linked, so improving one can improve the other.
Exercise and Mental Health: ADHD
ADHD can make it difficult to process information, pay attention, focus on tasks, and make decisions. Exercising can improve your motivation, concentration, mental health, and memory. By releasing brain chemicals like norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin, you can pay attention and focus. Think of being physically active on par with taking Adderall and Ritalin.
Your mental health improves greatly when you take care of your body! For workout tips, read on.
