How Does Exercise Help Improve Mental Health?
Physical exercise can play a vital role in improving mental health and well-being. Although the many physical health benefits from exercise are often discussed, from a healthy heart to stronger muscles, until recently the help that exercise provides for mental health hasn’t been discussed as frequently. But current research shows that exercise can in fact improve symptoms of some mental illnesses as well as simply promoting positive well being for everyone.
Mental Health Benefits From Physical Exercise
Among the beneficial effects exercise has on mental health is the ability to decrease your body’s reaction to anxiety. This happens because exercise can promote new neuron growth in important areas of your brain, which can greatly help those suffering from anxiety. Exercise also reduces inflammation, which offers a positive effect for people with depression or for those who are experiencing PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
Exercise can also improve motor skills and function, particularly for children and adults with ADHD. It can release tension and decrease both frequency and intensity of panic attacks for many people, too.
Promoting the Positive
Of course, exercise can also help to improve the well-being of people who are already feeling mentally healthy. Increasing your level of physical activity can improve your energy level, mood, and sleep quality. Here’s why exercise can do so much good for your body and mind:
- Stress hormones such as cortisol are decreased
- Endorphins—your body’s positive-feeling hormones – are increased
- Physical activity distracts from negative thoughts and feelings
- Exercise builds confidence by toning the body, assisting with weight loss
- Exercise can be social and fun
A social support system in and of itself benefits mental health, so that the combination of physical exercise with regular social interaction, such as in a yoga or exercise class, league sports, or just walking with friends, is a double boost for mental health.
And, because exercise promotes better physical health, it can reduce the possibility of illness and improve body strength, as well as heightening your immunity to colds, flu, and other illnesses. Long-term, your body will stay stronger for a healthier, more active quality of life even as you get older. And staying healthier and strong longer means you can enjoy your life more!
Overall, exercise provides an excellent buffer to ward-off stress. The strong link between physiological reactions to strength and exercise means that you’ll be less adversely affected by stress, and equip your body with the healthy resilience you physically and mentally need to overcome or deal with stressful situations. Physical exercise also helps you build immunity toward stress now, and in the future. More resistant to stress? That’s reason enough to start an exercise program!
Exercise and Longevity Herbs Can Both Help Your Health
Along with exercise, Longevity Herbs can also help improve your mental health. If you’d like to learn more about Longevity Herbs, explore our product selection online or reach out and contact us today.
