We already know that exercise is good for our bodies, but there is SO many benefits for our mind and mental health too!
According to Health Direct (2020), these benefits include:
- Boosted self-esteem;
- Reduced stress;
- Reduced symptoms of depression;
- Reduced symptoms of anxiety;
- Increased alertness;
- Improved memory;
The Australian guidelines recommend adults do at least 30 minutes of moderate to intensive physical activity on most days of the week. You can measure this by using the ‘talk test’ – if you can talk but not sing during your activity you are completing moderate-intense physical activity.
On top of this, practicing mindfulness while doing exercise also reduces your stress and improves your mental health. Mindfulness is a mental state in which you are fully present in the current moment, without judgement (Very Well Fit, 2021). This may include listening to meditation while you are walking, doing yoga or Pilates or listening to music while exercise – anything that keeps your attention on the present, improving mindfulness.
According to helpguide.org (2021), other mental benefits of exercise include:
- Sharper memory and thinking;
- Improved sleep;
- Increased energy;
- Stronger resilience;