How is Fitness Related to Therapy? A Therapist’s Guide To Exercise and Mental Health

Exercise is a powerful tool for increasing emotional and physical wellbeing and is an effective evidence-based treatment for many mental health conditions. Additionally, exercise has been associated with positive effects upon multiple markers of physical and mental wellbeing:

• Exercise increases our energy levels - Increased physical activity is associated with reduced feelings of low energy or fatigue

• Exercise leads to better sleep - Research seems to suggest that doing exercise 4 to 8 hours before bedtime is likely optimal for improving sleep quality, although some exercise at any time of day seems to be beneficial

• Exercise is associated with greater self-esteem - People who take part in regular physical activity tend to have a higher level of physical self-worth, improved body image, and a higher level of self-esteem

• Exercise lowers your risk of ill-health - Regular physical activity is strongly associated with a decreased risk of many physical health conditions such as diabetes, stroke, and cancer

• Exercise is associated with improved brain function - Exercise is shown to have a positive association with cognitive performance. Exercise has also been found to improve concentration, reduce levels of irritability

• Exercise can help with the effects of depression and anxiety - Doing some form of physical activity as simple as a walk, yoga class, or weight training can help with the effects of depression and anxiety.

When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain. Endorphins also trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine!

Source: https://www.psychologytools.com/articles/the-therapists-guide-to-exercise-and-mental-health/