Benefits of Fitness For Mental Health

30 Jul Benefits of Fitness For Mental Health

Hi guys and I hope you are all well.

The last few months have been testing physically and mentally, so I was inspired to write a blog about the benefits of fitness for mental health.

Fortunately I was able to catch up with Frankie Stein from “film daily” and discuss the topic

The advantages

For me there are many benefits from fitness in regards to mental health. Most of us know the many physical benefits of exercise: weight control, lower blood pressure, reduced risk of diabetes, and increased energy, just to name a few. But what about the psychological benefits of exercise? From easing symptoms of depression and anxiety to keeping your memory sharp, there’s no shortage of mental benefits of exercise. Whether you need motivation to get to the gym or to just take a brisk walk, it can help your anxiety or depression.

The feel good

Physical activity kicks up endorphin levels, the body’s famous “feel good” chemical produced by the brain and spinal cord that produces feelings of happiness and euphoria. Even just moderate exercise throughout the week can improve depression and anxiety, so much so that some doctors recommend trying out an exercise regimen for these conditions before turning to medication.

The achievements

When you are finally in the routine of fitness and you start to see your results, you will feel like you have reached the beginning of your success. This will make you feel motivated and have a better mentality with your approach to fitness. Not only will your body build strength, but your mind will too. Once you have achieved your goals, even the baby steps, you will soon see that you will be inspired to thrive for more success.

The distraction

Sometimes you can feel stressed out from other circumstances in life such as work or relationships, or you might find yourself overthinking situations that get you down. By going to the gym, walking or working out can clear your head and distract you from the bad thoughts that are clouding your mind. With endorphins being released into your brain, you will feel happier and focused on your fitness too. Fitness can be seen as a break through from your troubles, or a form of escapism from stress.

The stats

According to helpguide, studies have shown that exercise can treat mild to moderate depression as effectively as someone taking antidepressants. One of the most recent studies based on this topic was done by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. As a result, they concluded that running for 15 minutes a day or walking for an hour can help reduce the risk of major depression by 26%. Studies also concluded that having an exercise schedule at the ready and following it daily can help prevent a person from relapsing.

Fitness is one of the most powerful things we can have as people. It can help fight against depression for many different reasons. It can help with neural growth, have reduced inflammation to the brain, plus once you comply with your fitness routine, you will see the new activity patterns in your brain that can promote positive feelings, as well as a sense of calmness and well being. By participating or performing in any sports or fitness routines 3 to 4 times a week can help improve your mental health state massively.

Fitness is also known to play a role in relieving tensions and stress for someone who has anxiety. Yoga especially is great for anxiety, because it can help a person be in tune with their feelings, create a mindfulness environment, whilst feeling calm and peaceful.

Thanks for reading

you can also catch the full interview on the link below:

https://filmdaily.co/news/fitness-mental-health/comment-page-1/?unapproved=33552&moderation-hash=02fdfb576f10bae15ae64ae8cfe3e43a#comment-33552