Get Active
Regular physical activity can be an enjoyable way to improve your physical and mental health and your overall wellbeing. Studies have shown that regular exercise can relieve many of the symptoms of mental illness, in particular depression and anxiety. It releases stress and boosts confidence.
Exercising outside can be especially beneficial as fresh air and the natural environment refresh, relax and calm the body and mind. Exercise can be fun, helping you to meet new people and learn new skills. If you’re new to exercise, try swimming, walking or gardening. Set yourself goals and keep a note of your progress, so you’ll appreciate how far you’ve progressed.
Regular activity can:
· help you prevent and manage conditions such as diabetes, obesity and coronary heart disease
· reduce your chance of having a stroke or developing osteoporosis, colon cancer or breast cancer
· reduce your risk of high blood pressure
· improve your blood cholesterol profile
· protect against the development of lower back pain
Regular physical activity can promote wellbeing in many ways. It:
· improves sleeping habits
· makes you feel more energetic
· helps older adults maintain their independence
· helps people to prevent and manage stress, anxiety and depression.
How much activity is best?
Adults of all ages should aim to build up to at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on 5 or more days of the week.
The good news is this 30 minutes can be broken down into smaller chunks such as 2 x 15 minutes or 3 x 10 minutes.
For more information please click to read information from Mind, the mental health charity.