Ever thought about how moving your body can make a big difference in how you feel? While it’s not a magic fix for everything, doing some physical activity regularly can really help. Let’s dive into why moving is good for your mental health, how much you need, and why doing a little bit every day matters.
Also read: 9 ways to improve your mental health
Mental Health and Physical Activity
Doing things like walking or even just moving around can do wonders. It can help with stress, lift your mood, and make you feel better overall. If you do it with others, like taking a walk with a friend, it’s even better. A study found that people who exercise had 43% fewer bad mental health days than those who didn’t. So, moving is a win!
Easy vs. Sweaty Moves for Feeling Better
There are two types of moves: the kind that gets your heart pumping a lot (like running or biking fast), and the kind that’s gentler (like walking, easy jogging, or yoga). Both are great for your mental health. Sweaty moves work well for beating the blues, while easy moves help your body deal with stress hormones and make you feel more relaxed.
Find Your Best Move
The best move for you is the one you like and can do often. You don’t need to join a fancy gym or run a marathon. Some people love walking, others like lifting weights. If you want more benefits, try adding something different to your routine, even if it’s just a little bit. For example, if you like cardio, throw in a bit of weightlifting. Mixing things up can make you even stronger and happier.
Also read: The Best Physical Activity for Improving Your Mental Health
Keep It Simple and Regular
The key is to do something every day, even if it’s just a short walk. You can do stretches and easy exercises (like sitting down and standing up a few times) to keep your joints and muscles happy. Gradually, you can add in a bit of strength training. Remember, too much of anything isn’t good. Keep it simple, be consistent, and enjoy the benefits without stressing yourself out.