Obesity, heart disease, diabetes and many other illnesses are associated with an inactive lifestyle – but have you thought about the effect it could have on your mental health?
It’s been reported that as many as 1 in 6 adults are suffering from a common mental health problem such as depression or anxiety.
Everybody wants to feel good, so it’s important to do as much as you can to feel happier – and that can be as simple as going to the gym.
Here are just some of the ways that exercise can benefit your mental health!
Boost happy hormones:
Endorphins and enkephalin are feel-good hormones released during exercise. If you’ve never been much of a gym bunny, don’t worry – studies have shown that even a 30-minute walk can increase the production of these!
Get outside:
The best place to is exercise is outside: it stops the repetitiveness of the gym and breathing clean air is good for your lungs. Studies have shown those who exercise in the countryside or by water feel happier!
Interacting with people:
Meeting people for an exercise class, going for a jog with your friend or joining a recreational local team can associate exercise with socialising and improve not only your mood but your relationships.
Increase brainpower:
Exercise benefits your brain physically and mentally – from reducing inflammation and stimulating growth to improving your mood, increasing your ability to learn, and reducing stress and anxiety.
Improve sleep quality:
Physical activity increases sleep duration and helps you to get a deeper sleep – exercise has been reported to help alleviate symptoms of sleep disorders!
Fight cognitive decline:
The ageing process often means that our minds become hazy. Exercising prevents cognitive decline and helps to boost the production of chemicals that fight age-related diseases. Of course this isn’t a cure, but every little bit helps!
Exercise is not just about rock-hard abs and walking up the stairs efficiently, it’s about increasing your self-confidence and improving your quality of life.
If you want to make a lifestyle change, and focus on yourself, your fitness and your mind, why not book a bootcamp today and kickstart your adventure?
