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Exercise supports the relief of depression and anxiety.
Mark Bloomfield, CPT“When you have anxiety or depression, exercise often seems like the last thing you want to do. But once you get motivated, exercise can make a big difference.” – Mayo Clinic
Today the topic of my writing will veer of the subject of exercise just a bit. Like millions of other Americans, I have fought with depression and anxiety my entire life. This post will highlight how exercise should be incorporated into your daily living to enhanced treatments. All us deserve to live a happy and serene life. You may turn to religion, spirituality, therapy, counseling, homeopathic remedies, or medicine. Treatment is not limited to the aforementioned, but exercise supports all of them.
One of my references was the world renowned Mayo Clinic. They have conducted extensive research on the topic of depression and anxiety. They have shown there is no clear connection between depression, anxiety, and working out, but support that there is a clear psychological and physical benefit. Some of the benefits include relaxation, positive attitude, feeling better, and suppresses depression and anxiety.
There are multitudes of health issues that improve with exercise that include but not limited to reducing high blood pressure, diabetes, and arthritis.
Ways exercise helps relive depression and anxiety:
- Neurotransmitters and endorphins are released. These are chemicals that make you feel good.
- Immune system chemicals that enhance depression are reduced.
- Body temperature rises and calms the body.
- Increasing body temperature, which may have calming effects
Ways exercise helps relieve depression and anxiety:
- Self-confidence is increased and feeling better about your appearance.
- Causes a distraction which helps to relieve anxiety by ridding your mind of negative thoughts.
- Meeting people and having social interaction when you exercise in a gym.
- Exercise is positive which enhances healthy coping skills.
Healthy exercising:
Try not to look at exercise as a chore because that can lead to an increase of both depression and anxiety. There are many fun ways to achieve exercise that are outside a gym setting. I am not saying that the gym cannot be fun, there are many of us enjoy the atmosphere and the social aspect. Exercise is not limited to running and weight lifting. There are many other forms that include bike riding, gardening, hiking, playing basketball, and swimming. Just getting off the couch will improve your mood!
Shake it up when it comes to scheduling your exercise routine. Getting bored with the same routine most likely will cause depression to re-surface. Taking the elevator, parking farther away, or consider riding your bike to work or the gym.
Finding a balance!
Exercising 30 minutes a day for three to five days a week has a positive impact on depression and anxiety. Performing more vigorously decreases the time you need to exercise!
The mental health benefits of exercise may last only if you stick with it over the long term — another good reason to focus on finding activities you enjoy.
Set a goal!
Having a goal will keep you focused and driven. There is no better satisfaction then meeting or achieving a set goal. Having a workout partner will enhance the experience by having positive support. Do not have an end goal; rather have a goal that you will improve on. If your goal was to run a 12 minute mile then shoot for an 11 minute mile when your original goal is met.
Stay healthy, happy, and positive to beat that depression and anxiety!
Disclaimer: The information provided is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute the advice of your physician or other health care professionals. Consult your physician or other health care professional before following any nutrition program, using any supplements or if you have any medical condition or are taking any prescription medications.
Member of ISSA
Mark Bloomfield, CPT
Certified Personal Trainer
Keep It Simple Fitness, LLC
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Seekonk, MA 02771
(508) 336-2200
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©2012 Keep It Simple Fitness LLC
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About the Author:
Mark Bloomfield, CPT received his personal training certification from International Sports Science Association (ISSA) and is the principal trainer at Keep It Simple Fitness, LLC. He writes about a variety of topics, including nutrition, weight loss, cardio and weight training.
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Disclaimer: The information provided is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute the advice of your physician or other health care professional. Consult your physician or other health care professional before following any exercise or nutrition program, using any supplements or if you have any medical condition or are taking any prescription medications.________________________________________________________________________________________
