Does Exercise Help Mental Health?

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Exercise is beneficial for a number of reasons, but there’s a question that’s often asked: does exercise help mental health? While the answer to that question depends on individual circumstances, it’s a general rule that it will. There are numerous reasons to engage in regular exercise, from the obvious physical health benefits to the mental ones. Read on to learn more about some of the benefits of exercise for mental health. Here are a few ideas to help you get started.

Physical activity reduces the risk of depression. Depression is a condition that can last weeks or months and can impact every aspect of one’s life. Exercise has also been proven to reduce anxiety levels, even in mild cases. In fact, it can help people with clinical anxiety, too. Exercising boosts mental energy, helps us think more clearly, and strengthens our memory. It can even prevent cognitive decline. And since exercise boosts our mood, it makes us feel happier and less stressed.

While there are many ways to exercise, the most important thing is to choose one that you enjoy. A regular aerobic workout can help you feel better, while yoga helps you relax. Yoga is a low-risk way to strengthen your mind and body. The benefits of yoga may start even after a single class. The benefits of exercise for mental health come from the hippocampus’ ability to grow new nerve cells and create new connections.

Exercise also builds resilience and flexibility. By forcing your body to move, you are forcing it to push past its comfort zone. This can help you manage depression and mood disorders. Exercise teaches your brain to stay engaged even when it’s uncomfortable and rewards you with endorphins. Having these positive effects on your mind can go a long way toward making you feel more confident and resilient. The benefits of regular exercise are significant. If you’re able to incorporate mindfulness into your routine, it can have profound benefits for your mental health.

Studies on the effects of exercise on mental health are not clear, but there are some promising results. Unlike some of the anti-depressant drugs, exercise can improve your mood, reduce stress, and improve sleep. In addition, studies have shown that it increases self-confidence and improves memory and concentration. And, these effects come without any serious side effects. So, what’s the problem with exercise for mental health? It’s not hard to see why it’s so effective for improving your mood!

Even if you’ve never exercised before, even a brisk walk can help clear your head and relax your body. If you’re not used to working out, ask your GP about exercise on prescription. A lot of GP surgeries now offer a variety of programs for people with a range of conditions. Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week – the equivalent of three x 25-minute HITZone sessions!