Everyone knows that regular exercise is good for the body. But exercise is also one of the most effective ways to improve your mental health. Regular exercise can have a profoundly positive impact on depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more.
It also relieves stress, improves memory, helps you sleep better, and boosts your overall mood. And you don’t have to be a fitness fanatic to reap the benefits. Research indicates that modest amounts of exercise can make a difference. No matter your age or fitness level, you can learn to use exercise as a powerful tool to feel better.
Studies show that exercise can treat mild to moderate depression as effectively as antidepressant medication—but without the side-effects. In addition to relieving depression symptoms, research also shows that maintaining an exercise schedule can prevent you from relapsing.
Exercise is a powerful depression fighter for several reasons. Most importantly, it promotes all kinds of changes in the brain, including neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns that promote feelings of calm and well-being. It also releases endorphins, powerful chemicals in your brain that energise your spirits and make you feel good. Finally, exercise can also serve as a distraction, allowing you to find some quiet time to break out of the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression.
Depression is a mental health issue that exists so much in the world of today. So many people are suffering from depression, with no idea of where to seek help or how to help themselves. It may be hard, when in that mental state, to get up and start moving. However, if you take small steps every day it can often lead to bigger steps in the future. Start with a 5 minute light walk for a couple days, and watch that 5 minutes turn into 10 minutes, then 15 minutes, and even 30 minutes.
There is no right or wrong when it comes to movement of the human body, especially for those people experiencing depression and anxiety in their lives. I believe that the right type of exercise is the one that you enjoy and that you will continue to do.
We all know how severe
depression can be. We all know what depression can lead to. As human beings we have a responsibility to look after each other. Whether its someone you know, or someone you don't know, sometimes lending a ear to listen or a hand to help can go a long way in life. Never underestimate the power of compassion and kindness. You never know when your actions can just save someone’s life.
Yours in health,
Coach Alex Kassis