The Benefits of Fitness on Mental Health

The COVID Pandemic, as we all know, has had a significant impact on the world and its people. Many individuals are affected not only physically but also mentally, with some experiencing anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. 

During times like these, it's important to take care of both our minds and our bodies; it might be the time to make a change in our life.  A good place to start is by noticing the habits that contribute to these feelings. One of those habits could be exercise so incorporating some fitness into our routine is one way to combat these.

Fitness is more often regarded as a means of improving physical health, but it can also have an effect on our mental health. A growing body of research suggests a strong link between physical activity and mental health. For some, fitness is a way to relieve stress and anxiety. It can also be a coping mechanism for people who suffer from depression or PTSD. The benefits of fitness on mental health can go both ways for people living with mental illness as well as those without it. 

There are lots of ways for individuals to stay active; from going for walks or taking up yoga classes to joining an organized sports team. Whatever form this physical activity takes, it will undoubtedly have positive effects on moods and self-esteem while giving us time away from screens and other distractions that might be making things worse rather than better. 

Even a simple activity is preferable to none at all. If you don't have time for 15 or 30 minutes of exercise, begin with 5 to 10-minute sessions and gradually increase your time. The more you exercise, the more energy you'll have, and you'll eventually feel ready for a little more. The key is to commit to some moderate physical activity on most days, no matter how little. As exercising becomes a habit, you can gradually add more minutes or try new activities. If you stick with it, the advantages of exercise will start to pay off.

Here are the three major benefits of Fitness on Mental Health

1. Reduce Stress. When stress affects the brain and its numerous nerve connections, the rest of the body feels the effects as well. So it stands to reason that if your body feels better, your mind will as well. Exercise and other forms of physical activity release endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and aid your body in lowering stress hormones such as cortisol.
2. Increase Energy Level. Exercising improves oxygen circulation in the body. This increase in oxygen not only helps the mitochondria produce energy, but it also allows your body to function better and use energy more efficiently.
3. Improve Sleep Quality. Stress is a common cause of sleep issues, such as difficulty falling asleep and sleeping restlessly throughout the night. Exercising and being exposed to natural light help to set your body clock. When individuals are exposed to natural light, it assists your body in establishing a healthy sleep-wake cycle where it tells your body when it should be alert and when it should relax.

It’s important to note that while you may feel better at first, it will take time before these benefits are seen in day-to-day living. When starting your workout routine or updating your diet plan, don’t expect immediate results but keep pushing through, and eventually, you should see some improvements!

In conclusion, the benefits of fitness are endless. Whether you do it for a hobby or as part of your daily routine, getting in shape is always a good idea. Not only will this improve your physical well-being but also have an impact on your mental health and quality of life! So go ahead and start incorporating some fitness into your lifestyle today! It doesn't matter how old you are or what kind of shape you're currently in.

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If this article made you think about changing up your lifestyle habits, you can also contact us if you want some personalized advice on finding the best workout plan or gym for yourself!