Mental Health and Fitness

Yes, we all know how significant exercise is for our overall physical health. According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, it is long been known that exercise is one of the most important pillar of physical health. But did you guys know that there is a strong correlation between mental health and exercise? Countless research demonstrates that regular exercise can have many positive impacts on our emotional well-being, mental diseases, and even a mental health. It effectively helps in treating common mental diseases, such as depression and anxiety. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety will be the second leading causes of global burden of disease. So, what are the mental health benefits of exercise and physical activities?

6 Mental Health Benefits of Exercise

1

Reduce feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress

4

Improvement of cognitive function, such as attention, memory, language, executive functions, and visual abilities

2

Better sleep and more energy

5

Release more stored energy, which can enhance your mood and overall emotional well-being

3

Powerful mood-boosting effects

6

Reduced tiredness and sharper memories which can increase mental alertness

According to the World Health Organization, "Regular physical activity is proven to help prevent and manage noncommunicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and several cancers. It also helps prevent hypertension, maintain healthy body weight and can improve mental health, quality of life and well-being. "

Sharma, A., Madaan, V., & Petty, F. D. (2006). Exercise for mental health. Primary care

companion to the Journal of clinical psychiatry, 8(2), 106. https://doi.org/10.4088/pcc.v08n0208a