Exercise can work wonders not only on your physical health, but on your mental health as well. It can be a powerful antidote to stress, anxiety, and even depression. It boosts our mood and can even help us to develop better coping mechanisms and improve self-esteem. From the endorphins released during a workout to the sense of accomplishment that comes with meeting a goal, exercise can be an amazing tool for improving our mental health.
Not a fan of exercise? Then read more about the many benefits of exercise for mental health and how it can be used to help us live happier, more fulfilled lives – you might just change your mind.
What is mental health?
Mental health is an often overlooked, but incredibly important part of our overall wellbeing. It encompasses the physical, emotional, and mental states that affect how we think, feel, and act. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and stress can make it difficult to cope with life’s challenges and be productive. Additionally, mental health issues can manifest as anger issues, trouble focusing, or an inability to maintain healthy relationships. Taking care of our mental health is vital for leading a happy and successful life.
How does exercise help mental health?
Exercise has long been associated with a healthier body, but recent research has shown that it also plays an important role in improving mental health. Regular physical activity can help to boost energy levels, reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, and promote better sleep. Exercise can also help people to focus better and manage anger issues.
Exercise releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones in the brain. Endorphins act as natural painkillers and make us feel energised and happy. The release of these hormones has a calming effect on the mind and reduces stress levels. Exercise also increases blood flow to the brain, which helps to improve concentration and memory.
Moreover, exercise is an effective distraction from negative thinking patterns and negative self-talk. It gives us something positive to focus on instead of our worries. When we’re actively engaging in physical activity, our minds are occupied by thoughts of performance and enjoyment rather than ruminating over our problems. This helps to build confidence, reduce stress and make us more aware of our physical and mental needs.
Types of exercises that benefit mental health
Exercise can have a major impact on our mental health and wellbeing. Any type of physical activity helps to reduce stress, improve mood and boost self-confidence. Different types of exercises offer different benefits, so it is important to find the right type of exercise for your needs.
Cardiovascular Exercise: Cardiovascular exercises such as running, swimming, cycling and walking are great for improving overall mental health. They help to reduce stress and anxiety, lift mood and increase endorphins (the “feel good” chemicals) in the brain.
Strength Training: Strength training is an important form of exercise for improving mental health. It helps to build self-esteem and confidence, which can help people feel more positive about themselves and their capabilities. Strength training also helps to reduce stress and fatigue, and can help with sleep problems.
Yoga or stretching: Yoga and stretching exercises are excellent forms of exercise for mental health. It helps to relax the body and mind, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve concentration and focus. It also helps to improve balance and coordination, which can lead to better overall physical health.
Hiking: Hiking is a great way to clear the mind and bring some inner peace. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, increase focus and concentration, and foster creativity.
These are just some of the many forms of exercise that can benefit mental health. The important thing is to find something that works for you and that you enjoy doing. Once you find a form of exercise that you enjoy, you’ll be more likely to stick with it and reap the mental health benefits.
Why is it hard to start exercising?
Many people find it hard to start exercising, especially if they’re new to the habit or have been inactive for a while. It can be intimidating to jump back into a routine and often it’s difficult to motivate yourself to get started. Many of us have busy lives and can’t find time in our day for exercise, or we don’t know how to go about it.
It can be tough to break old habits and create new ones, which is why setting realistic goals and developing a plan is so important. Make sure to set achievable targets and schedule time for exercise that fits into your daily life. When you’re ready, start small and work your way up to more challenging exercises. Focus on having fun and finding activities you enjoy.
If you’re still struggling to stick with an exercise routine, try joining a class at a fitness club, working out with friends or family, or enlisting the help of a personal trainer. Having someone who can provide guidance, motivation, and accountability can make all the difference.
Finally, don’t forget that it takes time and patience to develop healthy habits. Just like any other type of self-care, it takes effort and consistency. So don’t be discouraged if you don’t see instant results; keep at it and you’ll get there.
Tips for starting an exercise routine
When it comes to exercise, taking the first step is often the hardest. But, if you break down your routine into small, manageable steps, it can be easy to get started. Here are a few tips for starting an exercise routine:
- Set realistic goals.
Start small and choose achievable goals that you can achieve with effort. Don’t try to do too much too soon or you may become discouraged. - Find an activity you enjoy.
Exercise doesn’t have to be boring or tedious. If you choose something you actually like doing, you’re more likely to stick with it. - Start slowly and gradually increase intensity.
Ramp up your activity level over time so your body can adjust. Starting too fast can lead to injury. - Schedule your workouts.
Making exercise part of your regular routine helps make it a priority. Schedule it into your day like any other appointment. - Make it social.
Invite friends or family members to join you. Having someone there to keep you motivated makes it more fun and increases the likelihood of success. - Track your progress.
Recording your progress is a great way to stay motivated and make sure you’re seeing results from your efforts.
Exercise is a great way to boost your mental health, but the key is to take it slow and start with small steps that you can handle. With consistency and dedication, you can create a healthy routine that will help you feel happier, more energised and more in control of your emotions.