Exercise for better mental health

Mar 17 / Peter Piñón

You might think of exercise as just a way to get in shape, but did you know it can also have a powerful impact on your mental health?

In this post, we'll explore how exercise can help you improve your mental health and provide practical tips on how to make it a part of your routine.

Are you struggling with stress and anxiety, low mood, or lack of energy? These are all common mental health issues that can impact your quality of life. You might have tried different solutions, but nothing seems to work long-term.

What if we told you that exercise could be one of the keys to transforming your mental health and improving your overall well-being?

Let’s look at 10 benefits of regular exercise:

Reduces stress and anxiety levels
Boosts mood and self-esteem
Improves cognitive function
Enhances sleep quality
Increases energy levels
Promotes social interaction
Increases resilience
Improves body image
Strengthens immune system
Gives sense of accomplishment

By incorporating regular physical activity into your life, you can enjoy these benefits and transform your mental health.

Here are some practical tips to help you build exercise into your daily routine:

1. Start small
Begin with small, manageable goals and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts over time.

2. Find an activity you enjoy
Choose an activity you enjoy, whether it's hiking, dancing, or playing a team sport.

3. Make it a habit
Schedule your workouts into your calendar and make exercise a non-negotiable part of your routine.

4. Buddy up
Find a workout buddy or join a group fitness class to make exercise more enjoyable and hold yourself accountable.

5. Build activity into your daily life
Look for ways to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

6. Mix it up
Keep things interesting by trying new activities or changing up your routine.

Are you ready to transform your mental health and improve your overall well-being? Start by incorporating regular physical activity into your life.

Remember, something is better than nothing! Start small, find an activity you enjoy, and make exercise a non-negotiable part of your routine. Your mind and body will thank you.

Recommended reading:

Harvard Health Publishing. (2018, April 9). Exercising to relax. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax
Mental Health Foundation. (2013). Exercise and mental health. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/e/exercise-and-mental-health
Harvard Health Publishing. (2018, February 22). Exercise is an all-natural treatment to fight depression. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/exercise-is-an-all-natural-treatment-to-fight-depression
Mayo Clinic. (2021, February 6). Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495