How Can Exercise Benefit My Mental Health?

With the whole world taking measures in the wake of COVID-19, everyone has been doing their part to prevent the spread of the virus. While the physical effects of the Coronavirus are well known, for many people, this has been an especially trying time in regards to mental health and wellness. With this in mind, the healthcare providers here at Family Practice Center wanted to emphasize the importance of exercising and the positive impact it can have on your mental health. Getting regular exercise can have a powerful, positive impact on a person’s mood, emotional health, cognitive ability, and more. This doesn’t just apply to marathon runners; even regular moderate exercise like taking daily walks can provide significant mental health benefits to people of all ages.

Reducing Depression & Anxiety Symptoms

Exercise can provide significant relief for people who suffer from issues like depression or anxiety. Physical activity can help reduce the effects of depression and anxiety by stimulating the release of healthy endorphins and helping the person get out of their own head for a little while. Regular exercise can also help keep depression and anxiety away for people who are currently managing their symptoms.

Helping to Manage Stress

Getting overly stressed can wreak havoc on a person’s mood and cause the muscles to become tense or cramp up. Stress can also affect a person’s sleep habits. Exercise can help reduce stress by releasing endorphins in the brain and helping the muscles relax. Focusing on the task of exercising can also help you forget your daily tensions and exit your period of physical activity with a more calm and clear demeanor.

Boosting Memory

Regular exercise can help aid a person’s memory in both direct and indirect ways. Exercise helps the brain reduce insulin resistance and inflammation, while stimulating the release of growth factors to promote the generation of new blood vessels in the brain. Indirectly, exercising can also assist a person’s memory by improving their mood and promoting good sleep habits.

Helping with ADHD

Being physically active can be an effective way to reduce the symptoms of ADHD, including improving a person’s concentration, motivation, and memory. Physical activity naturally boosts the brain’s levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which can help increase focus and attention.

While we understand that this has been a very challenging time for so many people, finding time for regular exercise can provide considerable mental and physical benefits. Even something as simple as an evening walk around the neighborhood can help immensely. Every little bit of exercise can contribute to good long-term health and wellness for years to come. For more information or to schedule an appointment today, please contact Family Practice Center. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for additional health tips, news, and so much more.