Why it's important to be active
Exercise is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. Exercise not only benefits our physical health but also our mental health. Everything from yoga to weightlifting, walking, swimming, or even dancing, is excellent for our well-being. Here are 6 things exercise can do for you:
Boost 'Feel-Good' Chemicals
Regular exercise releases the main four feel-good brain chemicals that can enhance your sense of well-being. These are Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin, and Endorphins.
Reduce Depression & Anxiety
Not only does exercise boost the feel-good chemicals in the brain, but it will also take your mind off worries so you can get away from the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression and anxiety.
Gain Confidence
Meeting exercise goals or challenges, even small ones, can boost your self-confidence. Getting in shape can also make you feel better about your appearance, boosting your self-esteem.
Become More Social
Physical activity may give you the chance to meet or socialise with others and make new friends. Just exchanging a friendly smile or greeting as you walk around your neighbourhood can help your boost mood.
Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Doing something positive to manage depression or anxiety is a healthy coping strategy. Trying to feel better by drinking alcohol, dwelling on how you feel, or hoping depression or anxiety will go away on its own can lead to worsening symptoms.
Feel More Alive
Engaging in regular physical activity will help you feel more energised and motivated. Overall, you will likely feel healthier, stronger, and more in tune with your own body that you live in – which is a great feeling!
How much exercise is enough?
Doing 30 minutes or more of exercise a day for three to five days a week may significantly improve depression or anxiety symptoms. But smaller amounts of physical activity — as little as 10 to 15 minutes at a time — may make a difference. It may take less time exercising to improve your mood when you do more-vigorous activities, such as running or bicycling.
The mental health benefits of exercise and physical activity may last only if you stick with it over the long term - another good reason to focus on finding activities that you enjoy. Start slowly and gradually increase the frequency, duration, and intensity of your exercise to help make physical activity a regular part of our routine.
How do you get started - and stay motivated?
Starting and sticking with an exercise routine or regular physical activity can be a challenge. These tips can help your journey:
