There are so many benefits of exercise physically, we sometimes forget or may not realise how good exercise is for mental well being.  Particularly in the difficult times we face right now, issues we may face or feelings we may have can appear much worse when we are isolated or prevented from doing the things we love to do.  It is so important therefore to help with stress, worries or anxieties where we can, and exercise is such a great way of doing this. Here are my top reasons for doing exercise and the benefits to mental health:

1 Reducing stress – Stress can show itself in many ways, and we all deal with it differently, but it so important to keep active to reduce stress levels.  Myself and members regularly tell me that after a good cardio class, getting sweaty and out of breathe, can really help release tension and stress.  On the other end of the scale, relaxing exercise such as Yoga or Pilates can relax you, and using the correct breathing methods can really calm your mind.

2 Boost those happy chemicals – When you exercise you release endorphins, this can lead to a feeling or euphoria in some instances.  In particular doing dance classes, singing along to the music and working up a sweat can make you feel so much better, and leave you on a natural high.  I can almost lose myself when I am dancing, they say it is good for the soul, but its also very good for the mind.

3 Improve your self confidence – Doing regular exercise and keeping fit can improve the way you feel about yourself. It is not all about weight or size but how you see yourself. Seeing improvement in the amount exercise, or perhaps doing some exercises that in the first instance you really struggled with,  can be so rewarding. Slow and consistent improvement is the best improvement

4 Reduce Anxiety – Exercise can really help with anxiety and some forms of depression. Focusing on the moment and the exercise you are doing is a great way to take your mind away from your worries. Exercise also reduces muscle tension which can contribute to anxiety. Exercising regularly builds up resources and resilience against stormy emotions that may come your way too.

5 Sharpen your memory – Exercise is great for keeping your mind active and memory strong.  In particular learning new dance steps, routines or postures in Yoga or Pilates, not only requires physical engagement but requires you to engage your brain. Regular exercise has also been proven to delay onset of dementia in some cases.

6 Improve sleep and relaxation – At both ends of the exercise spectrum, from cardio to yoga, exercise can improve sleep and relaxation.  Working you body into a sweat and pushing yourself, gets your heart pumping and releases those happy hormones. You may feel tired but you should also feel relaxed and ready to chill out.  Towards the end of your Yoga session we include specific postures that are proven to calm the mind, relax the body and aid sleep.  It is so important to get enough sleep, as lack of sleep can not only affect your weight, but it can impact you in your day to day life, and affect the way you deal with issues that may come your way.

 

Whether you prefer to run a few miles a day or go for a walk around the park with the dog, make sure you are getting exercise 3 to 4 times per week at a minimum. It really can help improve your mood and feeling of well being.

 

Bev x