Not only is exercise one of the most effective ways to keep your body healthy, but it’s also a natural strategy to lift your mood. Regular exercises like walking or yoga can ease your daily symptoms of depression and anxiety. Exercise can also help increase your pain tolerance over time.
Don’t worry if you don’t like the gym; you don’t have to become a bodybuilder to reap the physical and mental health benefits of exercise. You’re probably already doing some of the work. Here are the top movements you should focus on this year.
Exercise makes you feel good about yourself. When I say exercise, I don’t only mean hitting the gym and pumping iron. Exercise is anything that gets you moving. You don’t have to leave your house to boost your mental wellness with physical activity.
Benefits of exercise on your mental health:
No one type of exercise will unlock good mental health. This means you have the flexibility to find something that fits your life. There is no bar to meet — any amount of movement counts. Researchers note that more exercise will increase the payoff.
Exercises to boost your mental health
1. Walking
For many people, walking is their go-to mental health exercise. It’s one of my favorites since it’s relatively low-impact, and you can do it anywhere. Walking can help ease stress, relieve anxiety symptoms and promote positive thoughts. If you want the best results, walk outside and soak in the greenery. Nature walks have been found to reduce anxiety.
It doesn’t have to be a long walk; studies show that as little as 15 minutes of walking can decrease your risk of becoming depressed by 26%.
If you’re looking for a more intense form of exercise for mental health, try running. Our brains flood with endorphins that boost our mood when we run. It’s what people call a “runner’s high.” Studies have found outdoor exercise to be an effective treatment alternative to antidepressants.