The truth behind Exercise and Mental Health
Hey Alliance Allies! You know that feeling after a good workout? The one where your body feels refreshed and your mind feels boosted too! Researchers from the University of South Australia recently found that : exercising can help our minds just as much, if not more than, some medications. Want to know how? Keep reading our blog and if you want to stay updated on the latest research and news in health and wellness, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more up to date information!
Why Exercise is a Big Deal for Your Mental Health
Exercise is most often associated with physical benefits such as weight loss, muscle toning, and improved cardiovascular health. But did you know exercise can also affect our minds and mental health too? Dive deeper into the connection between exercise and mental health, and unravel an entirely new world of benefits. The chemical changes exercise ignites in our brains release endorphins, our body’s natural mood elevators. Think of these as nature’s antidepressants. If you have ever felt an emotional high after a workout, that is the endorphin magic in action. Research findings like those from the University of South Australia, drive home the point that when talking about exercise and mental health, the benefits are tangible and potentially more powerful than those from medications.
Who Benefits the Most?
The best part? The benefits of exercise are universal because exercise does not discriminate. Whether you are navigating the emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy or postpartum recovery, grappling with physical challenges like HIV or kidney disease, or simply facing the blues on an off day, exercise can offer a slice of solace. It is not just a remedy reserved for those diagnosed with mental health concerns. Each of us, regardless of our life circumstances, can benefit from the transformative power of exercise. In a world filled with complexities, how reassuring is it to know that a simple jog or dance session can be the emotional boost or needed silver lining to our day?
What Kind of Exercise Works Best for Mental Health?
The beauty of exercise is in its sheer potential. Your health and what works best for you, is as unique as you are. There is no prescriptive formula that is applicable to everyone. For some individuals, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions may offer the best relief. Others may find solace in the calming embrace of yoga or the rhythmic flow of Pilates. For some, even a simple walk in the park can do wonders. The key is consistency and finding what resonates with you.
Exercise vs. Traditional Treatments
The realm of mental health treatments is vast ranging from therapy sessions to medications. However, research continues to show that exercises are effective and can have a greater positive impact on mental health. The Australian team’s research showed that physical activity was especially effective for improving symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and distress. While all levels of exercise appeared to show positive results, the greatest benefits were experienced by those with depression, pregnant and postpartum women, healthy individuals, and patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or kidney disease.
These findings reinforce that exercise should be considered as part of an overall mental health treatment plan. . It is not about negating the value of traditional treatments but recognizing and harnessing the benefits of physical activity.
Final Thoughts
The next time you may be feeling a bit off, remember there is a link between exercise and mental health. Maybe ditch the couch and go for a walk or try a new dance class. Your brain will thank you!