4 Mental Health Benefits From Physical Activity
Exercising releases endorphins, serotonin, and norepinephrines. Endorphins are known as the body’s natural painkiller. They’re often released after incidents like a sprained ankle or a tweaked back. A sport and exercise psychologist says,
“What appears to be happening is that exercise affords the body an opportunity to practice responding to stress, streamlining the communication between the systems involved in the stress response.”
Serotonin and norepinephrine are known as happy and stress hormones. Low levels of these hormones are linked with depression.
Great, so we know exercising releases these wonderful hormones. But how does that translate into measurable things experienced day-to-day? Let’s get into it.
Reduced Anxiety & Depression
Moderate to vigorous exercise may prevent future depressive symptoms, especially in children. For those who are struggling with anxiety and or depression, getting up and moving has been shown to provide short term relief by immediately elevating and even stabilizing mood.
Exercising can also be a great “escape” as it provides something important to focus on for a short time. Completing a session of exercise can also provide a huge sense of accomplishment, which in itself, helps combat symptoms of anxiety and depression.Increased Self-Esteem, Self-Worth, and Self-Confidence
Once you get up and moving, you’ll begin to fall in love with being active! It’s important to find a way you enjoy staying active because it means you’re more likely to continue doing it. You’ll be amazed by the things your body can do and accomplish. Building sustainable, healthy habits will create a positive association with exercise and body image.Improvements with Behavior
Exercise can help with behavioral disorders like autism, ADD/ADHD, anxiety and depression. One study of children with behavioral disorders in grades K-10 showed that those who participated in 30-40 minutes of exercise twice a week experienced significantly better self-regulation and overall less disciplinary action.Elevated Academic Performance & Overall Cognitive Development
Research conducted over the last 40 years suggests that moderate to vigorous exercise for 30+ minutes can help students stay on task and have a better attention span. Exercise is also linked to improved thinking skills. A study of children ages 7-12 found regular exercise was linked to a measurable improvement in executive function, the set of skills used for learning, solving problems and self-control.
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So are you convinced? Head out and get active today doing something fun with friends and family. It can be going on a walk, or playing tag! Make it fun so it’s something you can look forward to and sustain.
For ideas on staying active or entertaining your kids, meal tips, recipes, and physical development insight, follow us on Instagram @nhsportsco.
Catch You Next Time,
NH Sports
