We all know by now that regular activity is important for our physical well-being, but did you realize how vital it also is to our mental health? There are myriad ways in which getting regular exercise can help keep our minds not only happy, but sharp as well. Whether you choose to walk, run, swim, dance, bike, participate in a sport or take a class, there are simply no downsides to staying active. It supports a healthy body physiologically, and it’s beneficial to our minds, reducing stress and anxiety, contributing to good daily practices and lowering our chances of being affected by mental illness.
Don’t get sedentary this fall – start a walking club, join a gym or sign up for an exercise class. Just make sure that you’re moving! You owe it not only to your body, but to your mind, too.
Improves mood
Exercise is a great mood booster. Working out releases “happy” chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin, which can give your attitude a major upswing. Physical activity can be a great distraction from life’s challenges and stress and, as you reach certain goals, it can also help build your overall confidence.
Better sleep
Studies have shown time and time again that those who exercise regularly get better sleep. Consequently, they are less tired during the day and have more energy overall. Obviously after exercising, your body will be more drained, meaning that it’ll seek out deeper-quality sleep. Get in some good movement in the daytime and, at nighttime, you’ll catch better Zs.
Eliminates stress
As previously mentioned, working out pumps up endorphins, and it reduces levels of the body’s stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol as well. A brisk walk or game of pickleball can get your heart rate up and help you blow off some stream. And alleviating stress is very important for your cardiovascular health.
Alleviates mental health disorders
There are lots of reasons playing a game of tennis or taking a yoga class can help improve conditions such as anxiety. Biologically, it makes your brain happier and fights against those stress hormones we talked about and, in so doing, exercise can help calm the mind and reduce feelings of anxiety. Keeping fit has also been linked to helping combat mild to moderate depression.
Improves cognitive abilities
Exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function, including memory, attention and processing speed. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, and this helps supply oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. Regular exercise can also increase the production of proteins that are important for the growth and maintenance of brain cells.
Provides socialization
Exercising is something that’s oftentimes more enjoyable when you have someone to do it with. And it can be a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and enjoy the friendship and camaraderie of others. A team sport is one way to get physical activity in the company of like-minded enthusiasts. Exercise classes, such as swimming, Pilates or aerobics can also be a fun way to socialize with new people. Not only will you be getting in great workouts, you’ll also benefit from spending time with others, which staves off loneliness.
If you ever need mental health help, seek out the advice of a medical practitioner.