We all know that exercise is good for our physical health, but it may not be as well known that it can also be good for our mental health too. There are many reasons why you should try to be more active.
A healthy body is a healthy mind. When you feel good about yourself, your self-esteem improves, which in turn boosts your mental health.
You might not realize this, but exercise can actually help you sleep better, reduce stress, increase focus and improve your memory.
A recent study at the University of California, San Diego found that those who exercise regularly are better equipped to handle stress than those who don’t.
If you have ever found yourself on the couch feeling depressed, unmotivated or bored to the point where it seemed impossible to make yourself, get off the couch and exercise!
How does regular exercise help mental health?
When people talk about mental health, they usually talk about anxiety. But it is much more than anxiety; it’s a broader term that includes stress, depression, and a host of other issues.
Fortunately, regular exercise can help improve your mental health in a number of ways.
Exercise can give your brain a chance to produce important chemicals, including serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins.
Serotonin is a feel-good neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and fight depression, while endorphins make you feel happy and reduce anxiety.
Exercise can also help strengthen your immune system, which in turn protects your brain from illness and injury.
Regular exercise can also help you sleep better, lose weight, and lower your risk of developing certain diseases and conditions.
Finally, exercise can help build muscle, which is important because it provides structural support to your brain, allowing it to remain strong and healthy.
How does exercise reduce anxiety and depression?
According to a recent study by the American Psychological Association (APA), physical activity can help ease the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Exercise helps us cope with stress, depression, and anxiety. It gives us a sense of accomplishment, self-esteem, confidence, and energy. When we exercise, our bodies feel good.
We experience an increase in endorphins, which act like opiates in the body, providing us with a feeling of euphoria. This leads us to feel happier and more energetic.
We experience an overall sense of wellbeing and positive outlook. It is no wonder exercise is a proven stress reliever.
In fact, physical activity has been proven to be as effective as antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications in treating symptoms of depression. Exercise can also help to boost your mood, decrease stress, and lower anxiety levels.
What exercises are best for anxiety and depression?
There are many physical exercises that can help with anxiety and depression, but it's important to be sure you're working with an expert that knows how to recognize when and when not to exercise.
It’s always a good idea to work with a trainer who understands mental health and knows what will and will not benefit your mood.
Some of the most effective ways of combating anxiety and depression include yoga, deep breathing exercises, walking, running, swimming, biking and strength training. These exercises help the body relax and reduce stress levels.
The key is to combine exercise with other techniques to address those conditions. These techniques include but aren’t limited to mindfulness meditation, therapy, and medication.
Can lack of exercise affect mental health?
Most people don't realize that lack of exercise affects mental health. There are many studies showing that when someone is physically inactive, they're more likely to experience stress, anxiety and depression.
You may be thinking that exercise is boring and not exciting. But, when you exercise, you are getting a lot of benefits. First, you'll get your heart beating faster and your muscles stronger. You'll be able to feel better about yourself.
Also, when you are exercising, you'll get to spend time with your friends. You will have fun doing activities. In addition, when you exercise, you'll have more energy and you'll sleep better.
In conclusion, you need to know that your brain works best when you are exercising and moving regularly.
If you want to make a change in your life and make sure you are fit, healthy, happy, and active, you need to make sure you incorporate exercise into your daily routine.