The Importance of Exercise on my Mental Health: Are you ok?
Rewind 6 years and I found myself in a bit of a rut. I didn’t know it but I was depressed. Unhappy with the way I looked, felt and where I was in my life. I looked at others around me in successful jobs, relationships, strong hobbies and social lives. I was hiding an internal unhappiness, drinking, partying and eating my way through my days. Until it all changed. I stopped - admitted I needed help and reached out to my friends and family for support. While I enrolled in counselling and had the full support of everyone I put all my attention into getting fit. For me exercise was always something I enjoyed but it wasn't until Covid until I really understood and harnessed the power of it. Its a power that completely changed by mindset and mental health. In this blog I explore ways it can help you also.
6 minute read: Written by Dan Vermont
Exercise is often seen as a key component of physical health, but its benefits extend far beyond the body. Regular physical activity plays a significant role in improving mental health, influencing everything from mood to cognitive function, sleep patterns, and overall well-being. In today's fast-paced world, prioritizing exercise isn't just a matter of staying fit—it's a matter of nurturing your mind as well.
In this blog, we will explore the profound ways in which exercise positively impacts mental health, and why making it a part of your daily routine can improve not just your physical appearance, but also your quality of life.
1. Exercise Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Its like an instant relief for me. One of the most immediate and noticeable effects of exercise on mental health is its ability to reduce stress. The daily stresses of life, work, raising a family and trying to be a good husband, father and friend. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones. These natural chemicals help to reduce pain and boost happiness, creating a sense of relaxation and calm.
Regular exercise helps you manage stress more effectively by giving you an outlet for pent-up tension and anxiety. Whether you choose to go for a run, practice yoga, or take a brisk walk, exercise provides a productive and healthy way to reduce mental strain.
2. Boosts Mood and Fights Depression
There absolutely no shame in saying I am a better husband, father, friend and colleague if I have exercised. Exercise has been shown to be as effective as therapy or medication for treating mild to moderate depression. Physical activity stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, (I call these Good Dolphins ie Good Endorphins) which improve mood and foster a sense of well-being. Research also suggests that exercise can be a natural remedy for those suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), as it helps regulate sleep cycles and boosts energy levels.
The effects of exercise on mood are not only temporary. Studies have found that regular physical activity leads to long-term improvements in self-esteem and emotional resilience, helping to ward off depressive episodes.
3. Enhances Sleep Quality
My two kids definitely try to reduce my sleep quality however - If you’re struggling with sleep problems, exercise could be the solution you need. Engaging in regular physical activity can improve both the quality and quantity of sleep. Exercise helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. It also reduces the time spent tossing and turning in bed, contributing to deeper and more restful sleep.
By relieving stress and anxiety, exercise helps to prepare the body and mind for a more peaceful and uninterrupted night’s rest. This, in turn, has a positive impact on your mental clarity, emotional stability, and energy levels the following day.
4. Promotes Better Concentration and Cognitive Function
My ability to focus changed considerably. In the mix of my struggles I couldn’t focus on anything. My mind was all over the place. Exercise is not just beneficial for your mood; it also has a powerful effect on your cognitive abilities. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to support brain function. It enhances memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.
When you exercise, your brain releases proteins that foster the growth of new neural connections. This can lead to improved concentration and cognitive flexibility, helping you to think more clearly and make better decisions. For those struggling with mental fatigue or a lack of focus, a regular workout routine can provide much-needed mental clarity.
5. Aids in Weight Loss and Boosts Self-Confidence
Im living proof that exercise and diet can impact weight loss and self confidence. Check out the about me section to see my weight loss covid journey. Exercise plays a pivotal role in weight management. While dieting is important (Consume less calories than you burn). exercise helps burn calories and maintain a healthy metabolism, ultimately leading to weight loss. It also strengthens muscles and tones the body, contributing to a more sculpted and fit appearance.
As you begin to see physical changes in your body, your self-confidence will naturally improve. This increased self-esteem can have a positive effect on your mental health, giving you a greater sense of accomplishment and motivation in other areas of life.
6. Increases Productivity and Focus at Work
I have seen my productivity and motivation for work drastically improve. When you’re feeling mentally drained, it’s easy for your productivity to plummet. However, exercise has been shown to boost brain function and increase focus, leading to better performance at work. Physical activity increases energy levels, reduces feelings of fatigue, and improves overall concentration.
Whether you're working on a complex project or need to solve problems creatively, exercise can provide you with the mental clarity and focus needed to tackle the task at hand. The endorphin boost also helps fight the mid-afternoon slump, keeping you energized throughout the day.
7. Setting Aside Time for Exercise: A Daily Ritual
It;s now habitual. They say it take 1000+ repitions to learn a new skill. Creating habits is no different. Being consistent with all of life stresses is the hardest thing to nail. BUT - Incorporating exercise into your daily routine doesn’t have to be difficult. One of the biggest challenges many people face is finding the time to work out. But the truth is, even small amounts of exercise can lead to significant improvements in mental health.
To make exercise a habit, consider setting aside a specific time each day. Whether it's in the morning, during lunch, or after work, carving out time for physical activity ensures that it becomes a priority, just like any other part of your routine. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week—whether it’s going for a brisk walk, doing a home workout, or hitting the gym.
For those with busy schedules, simple solutions like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking or cycling to work can be effective ways to stay active without disrupting your day. The key is consistency and making it a non-negotiable part of your lifestyle.
Conclusion: The Power of Exercise for Mental Health
Exercise is Medicine. Your Health & Fitness isn’t going to look after itself.
The benefits of exercise on mental health are undeniable. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving sleep, concentration, and mood, the positive effects of physical activity reach far beyond the physical body. Regular exercise enhances cognitive function, increases productivity, and boosts self-esteem—all of which contribute to a better, more balanced life.
By setting aside time each day to prioritize exercise, you’re not just improving your physical fitness—you’re nurturing your mental and emotional well-being. So, lace up your sneakers, get moving, and watch as exercise transforms both your body and mind.
Make exercise a daily habit, and you’ll soon see the ripple effects on your overall health, happiness, and life satisfaction.
Still unsure, on the fence or can relate to so much of the above. DM me and lets chat.