Smaller amounts of physical activity or lower-impact activities can also make a difference for those who are just beginning their fitness journey. The general rule of thumb for adults is to exercise for at least 30 minutes per day for three to five days a week. By elevating your body temperature, you’re also primed for relaxation and restful sleep. Exercise has the added benefit of regulating your circadian rhythm, helping you stick to a regular sleep schedule. It’s a no-brainer that working out tires you out. Overcoming exercise goals and challenges can boost your confidence and provide an outlet for healthy coping. Not only will it divert your attention away from stress-inducing thoughts, but physical activity also loosens tight muscles and reduces tension. Moderate to vigorous exercise can be a helpful antidote to anxiety in a number of ways. “Staying active is important at all stages of life, but especially as you age.” Reduced anxiety “In older adults, exercise has been shown to increase the size of the hippocampus, which is the part of the brain that navigates emotion and stores memories,” said Rice. Physical activity works to sharpen your brain and executive function, including your memory, attention, and concentration. The endorphins generated during a good workout create feelings of happiness and can even combat symptoms of chronic illness, such as clinical depression. Enhanced mood and energyĮxercise is a natural mood booster-it increases levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain. While it’s not a cure all, physical activity can improve your psychological state and overall well-being in a number of ways. “Regular exercise can ease symptoms of conditions such as anxiety and depression, making it a vital tool for people seeking to better manage their mental health.” “Research shows that physical fitness and mental well-being are linked,” said Lindsay Rice, Personal Trainer and Nutrition Specialist at Inspira Fitness Connection. But what about the effects it can have on your mental health? The physical benefits of exercise are well-known and well-documented: weight control, reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes, and lower blood pressure.
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