We all know how important exercise is to keep our bodies healthy.

People who exercise

Studies daily tend to have better mental health and emotional well-being and are less likely to suffer from mental illness.

Starting to exercise appears to reduce the risk of developing mental illness. It also appears to help treat psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety. For mild to moderate or even severe depression, it has been has been proven by several studies that physical activity can be as effective as antidepressants and psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy. Also useful as an aid. 

Why does exercise make me feel better?

People who exercise regularly often do so often report  that it makes them feel better. Exercise can greatly improve your mood, focus, and alertness. It also helps you to have a positive outlook on life.

The actual relationship between exercise and mental health is a bit complex. For example, lack of exercise can be both a cause and a consequence of mental illness. But there are several ways exercise can help your mental health.

For example:

1. Exercise changes levels of brain chemicals such as serotonin,stress hormones,and
2. Regular exercise can help improve sleep and good sleep helps control your mood.
3. Exercise can improve your sense of controlling,coping skills,and self-esteem. People who exercise regularly often say how good it feels to complete a goal
4. Exercise distracts you from negative thoughts and provides opportunities for new positive vibes
5. Exercising with others provides an opportunity to socialize and gain social
6. Exercise boosts your energy
7. Physical activity can be an outlet for anger ans frustration
8. Exercise relieves skeletal muscle tension and makes you feel more
9. The physical benefits of exercising are also important for people with mental
10. Improves cardiovascular health and overall physical health

This is very important because people with moderate or serious mental health issues are at greater risk of suffering from chronical conditions such as severe heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and asthma.

Sport for mental health

If regular exercise isn’t already part of your routine, you may be wondering how much you need to do to improve your mental health.

The really good news is that exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous or long-lasting. Research shows that low- or moderate-intensity exercise is enough to change your mood and thought patterns. The Australian Physical Activity and Sedentary Guidelines recommend that adults be active most days, aiming for a total of 2.5-5 hours of moderate-intensity physical activity per week.

Brisk walking or swimming. Alternatively, it recommends weekly 1.25 to 2.5 hours of vigorous physical activity, such as jogging, brisk cycling, or team sports. Or you can combine both moderate or vigorous activity.

However, any exercise is better than no exercise. Taking a leisurely walk or doing activities like stretching and yoga can also greatly benefit your mind and body. Even household chores like sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming can be light exercises.

For even greater benefits, try exercising outdoors.

In several recent studies, people reported higher levels of vitality, enthusiasm, joy, and self-esteem and lower levels of tension, depression, and fatigue after being outside. They also said they were more likely to resume exercising than those who were.

Also, people who exercise outdoors do it more often and for longer than those who exercise indoors.

Read More: Nutrition