Mens sana in corpore sano is a famous Latin expression that means a healthy body can sustain a healthy mind. Exercise is not only a great way to develop a lean body, muscles, and a strong heart, but it’s also been shown to help keep us mentally fit too. There are many medical articles and research studies that show the benefits of exercise on mental health and mental illnesses including depression or anxiety. Exercise can also help our bodies deal with stress. One recent study revealed that taking a short eight minute walk can help decrease tension and boost your mood. Even short bursts of exercise can make a difference, which means you don’t have to spend long hours at the gym!
Tips: - Exercise 20 minutes a day, or 30 minutes three times a week to help boost your energy;
- Remember physical activity can include a range of things like playing outside with your children or pet(s), dancing to your favourite music, gardening, or going for a brisk walk;
- Increase your motivation by going with a friend;
- Keep a journal to track your progress;
- Get out there and have fun!
Do you think exercise has a positive influence on your mental health?
I went into an exercise program with the promise from my doctor that it would help my depression; it made it worse.
ReplyDeleteI get a bit more energy from exercising and the staff at the place where I work out are nice and I have fun with them but there is no long term effect on my mood. If anything, the sweating makes me feel more self conscious and increasing anxiety.