Kidding aside, did you know that exercising produces both physical and mental health benefits? This is why it is highly recommended for those suffering from anxiety or depression. Here’s just a few of those benefits***: Better sleep Increase in endurance Improved mood Stress relief Increased stamina Increased mental alertness Weight management and reduction Improved cardiovascular fitness More energy I know, I know. Sometimes it’s hard to imagine putting on running shoes, or getting a gym membership. I feel you. The good news is, this does not have to be so intense or too involved. All you need is to get up off your seat, walk to the window, maybe step outside for some nature and fresh air (additional benefits), do some stretching, jump a few times, and more. The idea here is to do it regularly, even just for a few minutes. The small things do add up to bigger things. So, if you see me taking a walk around campus, it’s not just to get to your classes or the office, I am getting myself some of those cool hormones that trigger the positive responses in my body and mind. (Shared with permission).
***Sharma A, Madaan V, Petty FD. Exercise for mental health. Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry. 2006;8(2):106. doi: 10.4088/pcc.v08n0208a. PMID: 16862239; PMCID: PMC1470658.