Why Exercise is the Best Therapy for Mental Health

Stress, anxiety, and Depression are things that are familiar to almost everyone in today’s world and have become almost a norm. Though therapy and medications may be effective in treating mental illnesses, nothing can be as natural as exercise for the treatment of mental disorders. Various studies prove that exercise is an effective way of managing the symptoms of Depression, decreasing anxiety, and improving one’s health. Exercise for mental health does not come with side effects and is, therefore, a cost-effective intervention that can be used to enhance mental health.

Benefits of Exercise on Mental Health

Exercise plays a crucial role in the improvement of the brain and the body, which makes it a therapy for mental health.

1. Exercise Reduces Stress and Anxiety

During any form of physical activity, your body produces endorphins, which are referred to as “feel-good hormones.” These chemicals have the effect of reducing stress and increasing relaxation. Scientific writings show that minor exercises like taking 5,000 steps per day can help alleviate anxiety and Depression (Psychology Today).

2. Boosts Mood and Reduces Depression

Doing regular exercises helps in the creation of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are the mood-regulating neurotransmitters. Indeed, studies prove that exercise for mental health is as effective as antidepressants in treating mild to moderate Depression (Verywell Mind).

3. Improves Sleep Quality

Lack of sleep is usually a common aspect of mental disorders, given that the disorders affect the natural sleep-wake cycle. They include; Exercise is one way of controlling the sleep-wake rhythm, which makes it easier for the individual to fall asleep and stay asleep. This, in turn, improves mood and cognition, hence the recommendation to take it in the morning.

4. Improves the brain and its cognitive abilities

Not only the body benefits from exercise but also the brain. Specifically, regular workouts enhance memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills since workouts enhance circulation to the brain. It also promotes neurogenesis, which means that it helps in the growth of new brain cells and, hence, may help in preventing the decline of brain functions.

5. Boosts Self-Esteem and Confidence

Regular exercising can improve the physical fitness of individuals and body image and, therefore, boost the confidence person. The feeling that comes with it after a good workout is that of achievement, which has a positive effect on mental health.

The Best Types of Exercise for Mental Health

In this case, it is important to make a clear distinction between all the exercises that can be done since not all are beneficial to the mental health of the individual. However, the good news is that any movement is better than none is a phrase that can apply to these cases as well. Following are some of the best exercises that can be taken into consideration:

• Aerobic Exercises (Running, Cycling, Swimming) – Such workouts help raise the heartbeat rate and make the brain secrete endorphins that enhance the mood.
• Yoga and Mindfulness-Based Exercises – Yoga is a form of exercise that involves both physical and mental exercise since it entails breathing exercises in addition to postures.
• Weight Lifting – This comes with the ability to boost moods through increased self-confidence and routine.
• Outdoor Activities (Hiking, Walking, Gardening) – Since the fresh air entails exposure to nature has advantages for mental health, such as relieving stress.

How Often Should You Exercise for Mental Health?

The American College of Sports Medicine and the World Health Organization have suggested at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week or 30 minutes five times a week (Psychology Today). However, any amount of activity is helpful, and it does not necessarily have to be long sessions. The trick is to set an activity you like and pursue it with vigor.

Conclusion

Physical activity for the brain is as effective as prescribed medicine for those who suffer from Depression, anxiety, and other disorders. Whether it is a walk, a workout session in a gym, or just a yoga session, it is evident that any form of movement can enhance the mental health of an individual. Therefore, if one feels stressed or even pressured, they should engage in regular exercise for menta health. This is something that your mind and body will appreciate doing.

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