The link between physical activity and mental health

Physical activity is beneficial for our physical health and plays a critical role in promoting mental health and wellness. In fact, over 80% of people agree that regular exercise is important for maintaining good mental health. This article explores the connection between physical activity and mental health because at Hopewood Lifestyle we know just how important this is Let’s start!

Physical activity is critically important

Physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health. It supports our physical body and aligns with holistic health principles and promotes a more balanced and natural approach to wellness. According to recent research, the mental health and wellbeing benefits of moving more include:

• less tension, stress, and mental fatigue 
• a natural energy boost 
• a sense of achievement 
• more focus and motivation 
• feeling less angry or frustrated 
• having fun 
• an opportunity to connect with others
• improved sleep.

 

Mental health benefits of physical activity

The benefits of physical activity on mental health are countless. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which reduce stress and enhance mood. It helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, which makes it an effective way to manage these common mental health conditions. 

Physical activity also improves cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. It shows that physical activity not only has a positive impact on our bodies but also significantly contributes to our mental wellness.

Tips to incorporate physical activity into daily life

Incorporating exercise into your daily routine may seem difficult, but even small changes can make a big difference. Here are some practical tips to help you integrate physical activity into your daily life:

Start small

Great accomplishments are often the result of small, consistent steps. Always take small steps to achieve big goals. There’s no need to stress about committing to an intense workout routine. Start with small, manageable steps, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for short walks during breaks.

Find activities you enjoy

It’s also important to find physical activities you genuinely enjoy doing. This will make it easier to stick to them in the long run. Try out different forms of exercise, such as dancing, yoga, or hiking, until you find something that sparks joy and makes you want to keep moving.

Make it a social activity

Working out with friends or family can make exercising more fun and help you stay motivated. Consider joining a fitness class together or participating in team sports. Go bike riding with a buddy. Not only will this make physical activity more enjoyable, but it will also provide a support system to help you stay on track.

Set realistic goals

It’s important to set achievable goals for yourself. Don’t push yourself too hard; aim for progress, not perfection. This way, you’ll be able to track your progress and feel a sense of accomplishment when you reach your goals.

Conclusion

Physical activity is really important for promoting both physical and mental health. By adding regular exercise into our daily lives, we can achieve a healthier and a more balanced state of well-being. So, let’s prioritise our overall wellness by making physical activity a part of our daily routine! 

Click here to discover more ways to enhance your journey towards better mental health.