In our modern world, we are surrounded by numerous sources of fear and stress. All kinds of worries can keep us awake and cause depression. Did you know that exercise is a natural way of managing stress? You can use exercise effectively to reduce stress, sleep better, and improve your cognitive skills. We’ll tell you how to do it!
5 Ways Your Mental Health Benefits From Exercise
Sports Against Depression
Depression is probably the most common mental illness; it affects many people. If you want to describe this disease, it is best to start with what it is NOT: just a sad state of mind. Depression is an extremely debilitating condition with a wide range of symptoms that has serious consequences for those affected. Today, we know that exercise and mental health are closely related. Studies have shown that regular exercise can reduce symptoms of depression by more than 20%.
Sport Against Stress
Stress is your body’s reaction to a threatening situation. Over time, your body learns how to deal with stress in certain ways. Once you are used to coping mechanisms that are not as healthy as lack of sleep, too much sugar, etc., exercise can help retrain your body. In addition, exercise acts as a natural mood enhancer thanks to the release of happiness hormones.
Better Sleep
Do you often find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep? Exercise is one of the most natural sleep aids.
The studies also show that exercise supports the phase of sleep when your brain can relax and memories are formed. That, in turn, supports your mental health.
Training For The Brain
Over the years, not only do our bodies change, but also our cognitive abilities. Fortunately, there are a few things we can do to exercise them and keep our brains fit well into old age. In addition to a nutrient-rich diet, healthy sleeping habits, and avoiding substances like tobacco and alcohol, exercise plays an important role in exercising our brains. It’s interesting how different types of physical activity affect our cognitive abilities.
More Energy
When you are tired at the end of a long day, exercising can seem like a big challenge. However, studies show that short periods of exercise significantly improve both mood and energy levels. Regular physical activity is of course better for your health and general well-being than if you hardly move and do not do any sport.
Conclusion
There are a variety of factors that affect your mental wellbeing. The good news is that exercise and regular exercise can actively support your mental health. Incorporate exercise into your everyday life in a way that works best for you. Whether 30 minutes of fitness per day or 5 minutes of moderate training per hour: Use the advantages of sport (also) for your mental health!
