I've said it in past posts, but I will always reinforce the positive effects of exercise. Don't just take it from me. According to Mayo Clinic, exercise is scientifically proven to ease the symptoms of depression. I can personally attest that this is true. You know how people say they feel great after a workout? That's because exercise produces endorphins and other chemicals that make you feel good.
So how exactly does exercise help you deal with depression? Mayo says exercise has these effects:
- Releasing endorphins and neurotransmitters (feel-good chemicals)
- Reducing immune system chemicals that can worsen depression.
- Increasing body temperature, which may help calm you
- Increasing confidence - When you're happy with your body, you're more likely to feel good mentally.
- Decrease worries. Exercise is great distraction technique.
You don't need to do a crazy workout that takes hours and hours; anything that gets your muscles moving and your heart beat up will do the trick. Walking, jogging, weight-lifting, swimming, even sporting activities will make a difference.
Even if you know exercise will help you cope with depression, sometimes physical activity seems like it will be the last thing you do. Depression drains your energy and interest, so finding the motivation to work out can be difficult. This is where your personal motivators come in. I can't tell you how to find a reason to exercise. For some people, the motivation that exercise will decrease symptoms is enough. For others, incorporating exercise into a daily routine may be a good idea. This way, it's just something you do, like sleeping or eating.
When you find the motivation, exercise is almost guaranteed to improve your depression. And who knows, maybe when you've found all-natural treatments like exercise, you'll be able to live medication-free.
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