Many Americans suffer from either anxiety or depression. In fact, anxiety disorders are some of the most common mental illnesses, affecting about 40 million adults. Since anxiety and depression often go together, you can bet many of these people are also clinically depressed.
it’s not surprising, then, that approximately one in six Americans take a psychiatric drug. This is usually an antidepressant. Most are taken on a long-term basis.
Is there another way? For some individuals, the answer is yes.
Are you suffering from either anxiety or depression? Are you looking for a natural way to treat these disorders? If so, try exercise.
Yes, exercise. Everyone knows exercise benefits the body. For some people, it also staves off depression as well as antidepressants. Below, let’s examine the emotional benefits of exercise. No matter your stress level, regular exercise can work wonders for your mental health!
How Does Exercise Improve Mood?
Aerobic exercise helps your brain release neurotransmitters called endorphins. They block pain and are also responsible for feelings of pleasure.
Our brains produce them naturally in response to pleasurable situations, like sex or enjoying a good meal, for example. Low endorphin levels are thought to be responsible for conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Depression also seems to be related to low levels of certain endorphins. Releasing endorphins through exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of these conditions.
For individuals with high levels of stress or anxiety, exercise can also serve as a distraction. In these cases, it’s best to think of exercise as a form of mediation.
Pay attention to the way your feet feel against the ground or the rhythm of your breathing. That way, you can break away from the endless cycle of repeating thoughts.
Sometimes just getting moving in a new place is enough to break the pattern. At the very least, exercise will release tension in your body. Sometimes, anxiety or stress causes physical symptoms. These can range from heart palpitations to stomach upset to tense neck or back muscles.
It’s easy to start ruminating on these symptoms, thereby slipping down into an endless cycle of pain and worry. As exercise alleviates these physical symptoms, it can help free an anxious person from worrying about their body.
Finally, getting in shape makes you feel better about yourself. How great is it to be able to get into those old jeans again? Doesn’t it feel wonderful to go clothes shopping and come home with items you like that actually fit?
These experiences can boost your body image and lead to greater self-confidence. This, in turn, will lead to happier moods in general.
The Cycle of Hope
Whereas above we talked about a cycle of worry, exercise can propel your mind in a more positive direction.
The more you exercise, the better you’ll sleep. Right away, that will make you feel better! Your confidence will improve, your body will feel less tense, and your brain will be releasing all kinds of wonderful endorphins.
In fact, people who exercise regularly don’t do it necessarily for the physical benefits. Knowing exercise reduces chronic disease is great, but that fact may not be motivation enough to keep going consistently.
Ask them why they do it, and the answer may surprise you. Many people say they exercise because it makes them feel good. Their memory is better, stress levels lower, and it makes them feel happier.
Without realizing it, they are reaping the benefits shown above. These are the key motivational factors that keep people going.
What Kind and How Much Exercise is Required?
After all this discussion, you might think you have to go out and run a triathlon now to overcome mental health problems. If you’re motivated to do that, great! But, studies have shown advantages gained even by modest amounts of regular exercise.
Notice the key word here: “regular.” Whatever you do, it needs to be consistent. Studies have shown, though, that even small amounts will improve your mood. In any case, if you’re not a regular exerciser now, you need to start small.
Taking a 5-minute walk is fine! Most likely you’ll be motivated to walk more once you get going. It seems illogical, but the more you exercise, the more energy you’ll have.
Celebrate whatever small accomplishment you make. That will help you do more! Remember, also, that your goal isn’t necessarily to participate in a triathlon. It’s consistent, aerobic exercise, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day.
Go for a walk with a friend. Take a hike in nature. Being outside in a natural surrounding adds even more benefits!
Did you know Japanese doctors prescribe something called a “forest bath” to improve the mental health of their patients? It’s nothing more than walking meditatively outside. Simply being in a green space makes us happier.
The hardest part is starting, especially when you’re depressed. Yes, it’s tempting to stay in bed or lie on the couch all day watching mindless TV. Resist the urge to do that.
Really, you’ll be surprised how much better you feel even after a short walk around the block. Once you get going, you won’t want to stop! After a while, you may find you don’t need your antidepressants anymore.
Of course, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before stopping any medication.
Studies have shown exercise to be as beneficial for some people. Other individuals might need additional treatment. On the other hand, anybody can reap the benefits of exercise.
The next time you’re feeling stressed out, try a walk in the park. You’ll be glad you did!
Wrapping Up the Emotional Benefits of Exercise
There you have it! Everything you need to know about the emotional benefits of exercise.
After reading this article, we hope you’re motivated to get going right away! If so, check out our Fitness section. Whether you’re looking for information on Pilates or how to get started in general, we’ve got you covered!