Does looking after our physical health help our mental health?
Last week, our MD Alexis Powell-Howard, asked us what we do to look after our physical health and if that affects our mental health?
When demands of work, family, and personal life feel overwhelming, taking care of our mental health is more important than ever. One of the easiest ways to help our physical and mental health is exercise.
In her post, Alexis talked about the connection between exercise and mental health.
It can be like a ‘drip’ effect in the background, reducing our capacity and energy, sometimes without us realising it until our mood is low, our anxiety increases or our capacity reduces significantly - meaning we can be more reactive, more tired and feel more than we would like to be.
Exercise is great for physical fitness of course, but its benefits extend far beyond a sculpted physique. Exercising regularly has been shown to have profound effects on our mental health. But it’s natural, when you're feeling low, to wonder how taking a walk make you feel any better.
We get it, especially this time of year. If you’re struggling, the thought of getting wrapped up and going out in the wind and rain can be the last thing you want to do – it’s far easier to shut yourself inside beneath a blanket. But while we know that going for a walk won’t fix all your problems, we do know it will make you feel better even for a brief moment in time.
And here’s how:
- Mood enhancement: Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as feel-good hormones. These natural chemicals can instantly boost your mood, reduce feelings of stress, and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Stress reduction: Physical activity helps the body manage and reduce stress. It acts as a natural stress reliever by reducing cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress.
- Improved cognitive function: Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities.
- A Sense of Achievement: Achieving fitness goals, even if it is simply putting your shoes and coat on and going for that walk, can significantly improve self-esteem and self-confidence.
- Better Sleep: Regular exercise can lead to improved sleep patterns, which are essential for maintaining good mental health.
Like we said, though, getting yourself moving when you’re struggling with your mental wellbeing can be overwhelming, and seem all too much. The vicious cycle of doing nothing is easier.
So, with that in mind, here are some practical steps to help you get started:
- Set realistic goals: Start small and gradually increase the frequency and/or duration of your workouts.
- Find an activity you enjoy: Whether it's dancing, hiking, swimming, or hitting the gym, choose activities that you genuinely enjoy to make exercise a sustainable habit.
- Create a schedule: Allocate specific time slots for exercise in your weekly schedule to ensure consistency.
- Mix it up: Incorporate a variety of exercises to keep things interesting and prevent boredom.
- Seek support: Consider joining a fitness class or finding a workout buddy to stay motivated.
Physical exercise isn't just about achieving physical fitness; it's a powerful tool for enhancing mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Alexis's post reminds us that taking care of our physical wellbeing is a key component of looking after our emotional wellbeing. By making exercise a regular part of our lives, we will feel the benefits inside, and out.
