Exercise improves mental health
Getting up off the couch and exercising can improve not only your physical health, but your mental health as well.
Martha Briggs, licensed acupuncturist, said 45 minutes a day of aerobic exercise has been shown to improve depression and fight anxiety.
"Exercise boosts endorphins and gives people a sense of accomplishment, as well," said Ms. Briggs, who offers workshops and classes through Backus Hospital's Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI).
Studies have shown regular exercise helps prevent chronic diseases, such as heart disease, osteoporosis, obesity and diabetes. People who exercise generally feel better mentally, as well.
Because exercise can boost serotonin, dopamine, endorphins, epinephrine and norepinephrine, it can be as effective in treating moderate depression as antidepressant medications, according to studies.
It also decreases stress hormones and reduces fatigue. Exercising regularly outside also increases levels of melatonin, which can have an effect on mood, sleep and energy. It may take six to 10 weeks of regular exercise to feel the results initially.
According to theMayo Clinic, it may take at least 30 minutes of exercise a day for at least three to five days a week to significantly improve depression symptoms.
Kate Thibodeau, an occupational therapist at Backus Rehabilitation Services, said while exercise may not be able to ward off depression entirely, it can be part of a management plan for handling depression.
"Society today is so fragmented and we are under constant stress, which affects our ability to remain centered within ourselves," she said. "Bringing body and mind together can assist in focus and calm the mind."
Exercising can also improve sleeping, increase energy and provide and distraction from worries and stress.