Exercise. We know that  most of us exercise for the trim waistline or the numbers on the scale, however exercise can do so much more for you. Exercise is an amazing tool for good mental health. When I run I call it my therapy because it IS exactly that. It’s my mental health therapy. If I feel like I’m in a funk I go and hit the pavement. I return feeling less stressed and more mentally clear. I’m energized and happy.

Here are 6 mental health benefits of exercise.

ADHD –  Regular exercise is an effective way of trying to reduce ADHD symptoms. Exercise helps increase the levels ofdopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the brain, which help maintain focus.

Anxiety – Exercise helps relieve tension while also creating rhythmic breathing, which helps reduce anxiety.

Depression – Exercise creates endorphines which boost your spirits, helping to battle mild to moderate depression.

Stress – Stress often makes our muscles tighten. Exercise helps to loosen up the tense muscles.

Sleep – Yoga and stretching at night will help you fall asleep faster and provide a deeper sleep.

Memory – Those wonderful endorphines also help you concentrate better. Exercise also stimulates new brain cell growth.

 

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and take care of your mental and physical health.