Most people will admit that the reason they exercise regularly isn’t to increase cardio endurance or strength. It isn’t to lose weight or trim their physique either. What most people enjoy the most about regular activity is the sense of overall well-being it provides.

There are many benefits from a regular exercise routine. These include better sleep hygiene, more energy throughout the day, a sharper mind, a relaxed state of being and an overall positive feeling about themselves and others.

The effects of regular activity on your mental health

Regular exercise can also have a powerful effect for those with mental health challenges. The effects of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and many other conditions can be lessened with even moderate amounts of regular activity. Studies have shown that regular exercise can treat mild to moderate depression as effectively as pharmaceutical solutions. In fact, a recent study done by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that running for 15 minutes a day or walking for an hour reduces the risk of major depression by 26%. 

Exercise promotes neural growth, reduces inflammation and creates activity patterns to promote feelings of wellness in the brain. Not to mention the release of endorphins, powerful chemicals known to lift spirits and give a an overall feeling of well-being.

Exercise can help alleviate some of the physical symptoms of anxiety by relaxing tense muscles. When your body feels better, often the mind will follow suit. Frequent stress related symptoms such as insomnia, heartburn and indigestion are often less severe with regular activity.

For conditions like ADHD, regular exercise helps to sharpen concentration, boost memory and mood. The brain starts to produce heightened levels of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin, all chemicals that lend to focus and attention. For PTSD and other trauma related conditions, the addition of regular activity helps to release the nervous system from the immobilization stress response.

It doesn’t take a rigorous or detailed routine to see the benefits of regular exercise. As little as 15 minutes 3-4 times a week is enough to start creating these chemical reactions in the brain. If you have any questions about adding physical activity to your life, we’d be happy to help!