We often equate regular exercise with physical health benefits like weight loss, improved cardiovascular health, and increased strength. However, an often-overlooked advantage of regular exercise is its profound impact on mental health. In this blog post, we will explore the various ways exercise can positively influence our mental wellbeing.
Boosting Your Mood
Regular exercise can improve your mood and decrease feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress. It produces changes in the parts of the brain that regulate stress and anxiety. Furthermore, exercise can increase brain sensitivity for hormones like serotonin, which relieve feelings of depression.
Improving Brain Health
Exercise can contribute to more significant brain health in several ways. It can aid memory and thinking skills, improve sleep, and even spur on brain cell growth. When you exercise, your heart rate increases, which promotes the flow of blood and oxygen to your brain.
Exercise and Sleep Quality
One of the many benefits of regular exercise includes better sleep. Physical activity increases the time spent in deep sleep, the most physically restorative sleep phase. Deep sleep helps to boost immune function, support cardiac health, and control stress and anxiety.
Top Tips for Inculcating Exercise Habit
- Set realistic goals: Start off slow and gradually increase your activity level.
- Choose an exercise you enjoy: Exercise doesn’t have to be boring. Select activities you like doing and add them to your routine.
- Make it a group activity: A workout partner can keep you motivated. Exercising with friends can make the activity enjoyable, and you’re more likely to stick with it.
According to the World Health Organization, it’s advised that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity physical activity each week. Remember, every bit counts! It’s important to listen to your body and do what feels right for you. Here’s to better mental health through exercise!