2024
How physical activity and mental health are linked
It’s well-known that physical activity and mental health are linked. But just how so has been the subject of many studies ongoing today. Here’s what we’ve learned so far.
How physical activity boosts mental health
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Endorphins
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Enhances self-esteem
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Gives the mind a break
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Improves quality of sleep
Endorphins
When you are active, the brain releases endorphins–the feel good chemical. Endorphins relieve stress and tension, and increase your sense of well-being or mood. With a better mood, depressive symptoms and anxiety ease.
Self-esteem
Being active increases your ability to do things. Whether that activity is lifting weights, running, walking, dancing, gardening, it doesn’t matter, there’s a positive influence on the body–it makes things easier. For instance, you don’t get as tired as you used to. Lifting or carrying things is easier. Moving faster or for longer periods doesn’t wind you.
As activity increases and it gets easier to move your body, you feel physically more capable. Feeling better physically helps you feel better mentally. An aspect of mental health therapy can include boosting activity levels for this reason. If you choose to do activities with a group, the extra social time can also boost mental health and build connections.
Give your mind a break
Engaging in an activity gives a chance for the mind to focus on something else besides your worries. This break gives it a chance to get out of depressive or anxious tracks it may be stuck in, or at least slow them down enough to allow for some additional perspective.
Improved quality of sleep
Increase your level of activity and you should find yourself sleeping better. Better sleep helps you deal with life’s stresses and enhances your resilience. Plus, your body will be getting the rest it needs to engage more easily in activities.
It’s important to understand that these concepts don’t need to be taken to extremes to be effective. It’s not an all-or-nothing scenario. Boosting your activity level will boost your mental health. Start small if you’ve been mostly sedentary and add more movement into your daily life.
Tips to get active
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Do an activity you enjoy
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Smaller bouts of activity are better than none at all
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Choose the active option over the passive one (stairs/elevator)
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Dance while doing chores, or waiting for coffee to brew, tea to steep, etc.
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Get mental health support
Improvement to mental health effects can be subtle. Having someone in your corner can help. A therapist versed in mental health counselling in Surrey provides help, guidance, and encouragement in a safe, supportive environment.
Your mental health is important. Make a mental health therapy appointment with an Alison Bell counsellor by calling 604-372-1545.