exercise mental as a tool

WRITTEN BY CHRISTOPHER RYDE

WE CAN ALL AGREE THAT A GOOD WORKOUT LEAVES US FEELING GREAT ACCOMPLISHMENT AND A JOLT OF SATISFACTION. HOWEVER WE CHOOSE TO BURN THOSE CALORIES, OUR BODIES THANK US. THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT EXERCISE THAT BOOSTS OUR OVERALL SENSE OF WELL-BEING AND, WHEN DONE FREQUENTLY, ADDS A LEVEL OF BALANCE TO OUR LIVES. THE POWER OF EXERCISE STRETCHES BEYOND THE PHYSICAL AND ENTERS OUR MENTAL REALM OF WELLNESS. LET'S TALK ABOUT EXERCISE AS A MENTAL TOOL.

There's overwhelming information about mental wellness and ways to boost it. First, let's break it down for you with the basics. What is mental health?

Mental health refers to a person's overall psychological well-being. It includes the ability to manage one's thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, as well as the ability to cope with life's challenges and stressors. Good mental health is characterized by feelings of happiness, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose in life. In contrast, poor mental health can lead to negative thoughts, feelings of worthlessness, and difficulty functioning in everyday life. Mental health can be affected by various factors, including genetics, environment, life experiences, and social and cultural factors.

Exercise significantly impacts mental health, and numerous studies have demonstrated the positive effects of regular physical activity on mental health and well-being. Here are some ways exercise can impact mental health:

1. REDUCES STRESS AND ANXIETY – Exercise helps reduce the stress hormone levels, cortisol, and increase the release of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. As a result, regular exercise can help manage symptoms of anxiety and stress.

2. IMPROVES MOOD – Exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. This may be due to the release of endorphins during exercise and the sense of accomplishment that comes with achieving fitness goals.

3. BOOSTS SELF-ESTEEM - Regular exercise can help increase self-esteem and confidence as individuals begin to see the results of their hard work and feel more in control of their physical and mental health.

6. EXERCISE CAN INCREASE SOCIAL CONNECTIONS, which decreases isolation. Hey, gym buddies are healing!

Practicing healthy exercise habits is important to ensure you are reaping the benefits of physical activity while minimizing the risk of injury or burnout. Here are some tips for practicing healthy exercise habits:

1. START SLOW.

If you're new to exercise or haven't worked out, start slowly and gradually build up your intensity and duration. This will help prevent injury and allow your body to adjust to exercise demands.

2. CHOOSE ACTIVITIES YOU ENJOY.

Exercise should be enjoyable, whether it's dancing, hiking, cycling, or playing a team sport, an activity you enjoy will help you stick to your exercise routine and make it a sustainable part of your lifestyle.

3. SET REALISTIC GOALS. Set achievable goals that are specific, measurable, and time-bound. This will help you stay motivated and track your progress.

4. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. Pay attention to how your body feels during and after exercise. If you feel pain or discomfort, modify your workout, or take a break. It's important to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard.

5. FUEL YOUR BODY.

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is essential for fueling your body for exercise. Ensure you drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet with complex carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats.

6. REST AND RECOVER. Rest and recovery are essential for allowing your body to recover from exercise and build strength. Make sure to take rest days and prioritize sleep and relaxation.

4. IMPROVES COGNITIVE FUNCTION - Exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function, including memory, attention, and concentration.

5. HELPS WITH SLEEP - Exercise can improve the quality and quantity of sleep, essential for maintaining good mental health.

Taking care of your mental health and well-being positively impacts several aspects of your life. Don't shy away from prioritizing it. Find a workout routine that you enjoy and get ready to reap the benefits, mentally and physically.