Curian Medical Tip 3 – Exercise
Did you know that physical activity is also beneficial for your mental health and wellbeing?
Research indicates that modest amounts of exercise can make a difference. No matter your age or fitness level, you can learn to use exercise as a powerful tool to feel better. Physical activity is thought to cause chemical changes in the brain, which can help to positively change our mood.
Mental and emotional benefits of exercise include;
- Higher self-esteem
- Sharper memory and thinking
- Better sleep
- More energy
- Stronger resilience
Ever noticed how your body feels when you’re under stress? Your muscles may be tense, especially in your face, neck, and shoulders, leaving you with back or neck pain, or painful headaches. You may feel a tightness in your chest, a pounding pulse, or muscle cramps. Exercising can break this cycle. As well as releasing endorphins in the brain, physical activity helps to relax the muscles and relieve tension in the body.
Even just a few minutes of physical activity are better than none at all. So if you don’t have time for 15 or 30 minutes of exercise start with 5 or 10 minute sessions and perhaps aim to slowly increase your time. The more you exercise, the more energy you’ll have.
Exercise doesn’t just have to take place in a gym, look at your daily routine and discover how you can build in some activity such as;
- At work – can you walk or bike to work rather than drive. Take the stairs instead of taking the lift. Go for a vigorous walk during your coffee/lunch breaks
- In the home – Mow the lawn and tend to the garden. Clean the house or wash the car.
- With friends/family – Walk the dog. Take a class with friends – could be dance/yoga. Go on a bike ride
Whatever activity you choose to do, have fun and enjoy!
#MHAW19 #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek
