Exercising when you are struggling with depression, anxiety or having a bad day might feel like a mountain to climb, but it can really make a difference.
Apart from helping to keep you physically fit, physical activity has proven to have a huge benefit on people’s mental health. It can reduce anxiety, lift your mood, or make you feel like you accomplished something that day.
As you exercise your brain will release endorphins. Endorphins are hormones your body releases during enjoyable activities like eating or exercising and can reduce stress and improve your general well-being.
Whilst exercise in itself can improve your mental health, exercising with someone else or as part of a team can have an even greater effect. Being part of a group or a team can provide a real feeling of camaraderie and belonging which can feel great if you are struggling mentally.
Physical activity is a healthy coping mechanism for poor mental health. Instead of turning to unhealthy foods or lying around and letting your mind run, you’re doing something to try and improve both your physical and mental state.
Exercise doesn’t just have to mean going to the gym, running, or lifting weights either. It can be smaller, lighter activities that get you out the house, like a walk, playing some basketball with a friend or just taking a short bike ride.
Just getting some fresh air or a small 30-minute physical activity can make your day just a little bit better.
Konstantinos Patas
Josh Smith
Caitlin Hamill