Exercising For Better Mental Health

by Michael Corthell

When you realize that you're suffering from anxiety and depression, you may seek out medical treatment. You then will probably go to your primary care doctor to talk about meds. You may look for a therapist. You may even try to take a more holistic approach and use natural remedies. Many people will try all of these things.

''To enjoy the glow of good health, you must exercise.''
—Gene Tunney

What most people either don't know or don't want to know is that there is a way of managing anxiety and depression that is considered as powerful as many medicines. It's a method that has few side effects and could even improve your over-all health.

Medical studies have shown that physical and mental inactivity can be a cause of depression/anxiety/worry and that the opposite can help at least manage the symptoms and in some cases cure the illness. As with most illnesses the current thought is to always check with your physician before starting and exercise program.

I personally know that it can be difficult to even think about exercising when anxiety symptoms bottom you out. I felt the same way when I was a young man. But, I was surprised to discover and you may too, that *exercise can make a tremendous difference in both your energy level and your outlook on life. More common sense: it is best to start gradually, if your symptoms are intense—even one or two minutes of walking in your house a few times a day is a great start. Then add to it and move forward.  

You don't have to do all your exercising or other physical activity at once either. Keep physical activity in mind, and find ways to add small amounts of physical activity as you go about your day. For example, take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park a little farther away from work (or more common sense: park furthest from the front door of the supermarket!) to fit in a short walk. Or, if you live close to your job, you may consider biking to work.

The Why's: 

Exercising Prevents Inactivity. Exercise is the opposite of inactivity. Common sense: if you're exercising, then the effects of inactivity on anxiety would be there. Even if inactivity didn't cause your illness, it often makes it worse.

It releases endorphins. Yes, exercise has a medicinal effect it releases endorphins into your system, which are your body's natural painkillers. Your body releases them to prevent physical activities from causing pain, but they have the side benefit of regulating mood and relaxing you mind and body.

Exercise Burns Cortisol. All most all people living with anxiety, likely have an excess of cortisol in their bodies, as a result of the stress that is associated with anxiety. Exercise eats up that cortisol, preventing many of the symptoms that lead to anxiety and worry.

It Improves Sleep. And helps with anxiety induced insomnia. More common sense. You get tired out and it becomes easier to sleep.

Exercise is a Overall Healthy Activity. Exercising regularly is one of the leading ways to achieve better health in general. Coping with the stressors of life, in part, is about making sure that you're spending time in ways that are good for your body and your mental health, and exercise is a great way of doing that.

Exercising will improve your confidence also. It also help to keep your body healthy, and good physical health is important for any mental health issue. When a persons feels good, looks good and has the energy to get things done, there is a lot less to worry and fret about.

Exercising helps put (and keep) anyone in a positive frame of mind and a positive mindset is the key to a happy and fulfilling life.

*every person should consult their physician before starting any exercise program or changing their diet.

_______________

Health, Fitness and Happiness & Rules to Give You All 3

by Tony Horton

Tony is a world-class motivational speaker and the author of top-selling books “Bring It”, Crush It!” and his latest motivational book, “The Big Picture” 11 Laws that will change your life. He has appeared on countless television programs as a fitness and lifestyle expert to promote healthy living through exercise and proper nutrition.