When dealing with depression or anxiety, exercise can often feel like the last thing you want to tackle. However, exercise often proves to be a great coping mechanism and way to deal with the challenges of mental health! Research about depression, anxiety, and exercise is increasingly showing that regular exercise can improve mood and lessen anxiety. This is true not only in the short term, but also for extended periods of time.
Mental Health Benefits from Exercise
Releasing feel-good endorphins: Endorphins are natural chemicals, released in the brain that improve our sense of well-being.
Taking your mind off worries: Exercise can free your mind of troubles and get you away from the cycle of negative thinking that only feeds more depression and anxiety.
Gain confidence: Meeting exercise goals, even small ones, can boost our self-confidence. Getting in better shape also helps with our self-image & how we feel about ourselves.
Get more social interaction: Exercise and physical activity often provide opportunities to meet others. Whether on group runs, at the gym, or interacting through sports, be sure to share a smile.
Cope in a healthy way: Regular exercise is a healthy coping strategy that proves productive and great in the long term.
Read the Full Article Here: Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms - Mayo Clinic