How Can Exercise Improve Your Mental Health?

7/18/24

YOGA

Yoga is a holistic practice that originated in ancient India and encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines. It involves a combination of postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), meditation, and ethical principles.

RUNNING

Running improves mental health by reducing stress, boosting mood, and enhancing cognitive function through the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters. It also promotes better sleep, self-esteem, and social connection, providing a sense of purpose and mindfulness.

WEIGHT LIFTING

Weight lifting is a form of resistance training that involves lifting weights to build muscle strength, endurance, and size. It includes various exercises targeting different muscle groups and can be performed using free weights, machines, or bodyweight.

Exercise is considered one of the most beneficial FREE activities we can engage in to boost our mental health.

Let me tell you how!

Adapting a consistent exercise routine can significantly alter your mental health. From yoga to pilates or high intensity sprints, whatever seems right for you... get out there and try it!

Mood Enhancement: Regular aerobic exercise can boost mood while also decreasing anxiety, depression, and hostility. The release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline can help promote a good mood and reduce stress.

Cognitive Function: Exercise improves brain functioning by increasing blood flow to the brain. Oxygen can therefore be delivered to the brain via the blood, enhancing cognitive functioning and supporting brain health. More specifically, increasing BF to the brain can enhance prefrontal cortex functioning, enhance attention, and help consolidate memories. In addition, exercise causes the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which causes neurogenesis (new neuron growth) in the hippocampus.

Stress reduction: Exercise can also help us "blow off steam." If you're ever feeling bogged down and stressed out by life, try going out for a walk or joining a 60 minute yoga class. Exercise releases hormones and growth factors that support the health of your existing neurons. It can also significantly decrease cortisol levels, the brain's main stress hormone.

We know that exercise certainly isn't for everyone and that is totally OK! There's no need to start an expensive gym membership or sign up for a marathon today, but understanding the benefits that accompany exercise can be greatly informative. Not only does exercise keep your body healthy and happy, it can also seriously help your brain! Believing in the health benefits of physical activity can enhance the positive outcomes of exercise. Incorporating both endurance and strength training into your weekly routine can optimize these mental health benefits.