Exercise really does help improve mood and emotional health

It’s something you’ve probably heard many times, but unless you’ve tried it you may not believe it!

There are hundreds of research studies that have shown exercise to reduce the intensity of depression and anxiety, but you can always do an experiment on your own body to find out if it’s true.

The good news is that exercise doesn’t have to be intense or lengthy in order to have benefits. Those times you really don’t feel like it are when you need it most. Even five minutes of movement can brighten your mood and change your perspective.

Some of the benefits of exercise include:

• A mental holiday from your worries. Exercise is a healthy distraction that can get you out of the cycle of negative thoughts that worsen depression and anxiety.
• Improved confidence. Meeting exercise goals or challenges, even small ones, can boost your self confidence. Getting stronger and fitter can also make you feel better about your appearance.
• Achieving more social interaction. Exercise can offer you the chance to meet or socialize with others. Getting outside and doing some gardening can lead to a friendly chat with your neighbours that lifts your mood.
• Teaching you to cope with stress in a healthy way. Let’s face it, most coping strategies are destructive – eating, drinking alcohol, shopping or gambling are very common ways people deal with hurtful emotions. Doing something positive for yourself like exercise can improve your courage and faith in yourself at dealing with life’s problems.

Please do something active today.