"MOVE TO IMPROVE- LEVEL UP YOUR MENTAL HEALTH WITH EXERCISE"

INTRODUCTION:

In the fast-paced, high-stress world we live in today, taking care of our mental health is just as important as our physical well-being. While many strategies exist for improving mental health, one powerful tool that often gets overlooked is exercise. Physical activity has been shown time and time again to have a profound impact on mental well-being, offering a natural and effective way to boost mood, reduce stress, and improve overall mental health.

What is Physical Activity?

Body movement produced by muscles action that increases energy expenditure e.g. activities of daily living such as doing job, cooking, working in the fields etc.

What is Exercise?

Planned structured, repetitive and purposeful physical activity e.g. sports training for athletes, gym training or recreational activities etc.

Chemistry of Exercise:

When we do physical activity, our bodies release endorphins, often referred to as "feel-good" hormones. These chemicals are natural painkillers and can improve our mood, decrease feelings of stress and anxiety, and enhance a sense of well-being. furthermore, daily exercise has been linked to improve quality of sleep, improve self-esteem, and regulate cognitive function.

Association of Exercise with Mental Health:

One of the most prevalent advantage of exercise on mental health is its ability to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Research has shown that physical activity can be as effective as medication or therapy in managing mild to moderate depression and anxiety disorders. By introducing regular exercise into your daily routine, you can experience a significant reduction in symptoms and an overall enhancement in mental well-being.

“Do something about yourself today that your future self will thank you for” — Sean Patrick Flanery

additionally, exercise provides a healthy outlet for stress relief. There are different types of  exercises such as:

• Cardio
• Aerobics
• Yoga
• Strength training exercise
• Endurance training exercise
• Coordination control exercises

These physical activities offers a constructive way to release pent-up tension and clear your mind. The rhythmic movements and focused concentration required during exercise can help calm the nervous system, reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and promote relaxation.

Positive Impacts of Exercise on Brain Activity:

• Increase production of Neurochemicals that promote brain cell repair. 
• Improve memory
• Lengthens life span
• Boots decision making skills
• Promotes growth of new and health nerve cells and blood vessels
• Improves multi tasking and planning

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, exercise is a powerful and accessible tool for improving mental health. By incorporating regular physical activity into your routine, you can experience a wide range of benefits, from boosting your mood and reducing stress to managing symptoms of depression and anxiety. So, lace up your sneakers, grab your yoga mat, or hit the trails and follow the words of Jim Rohn who explains that,

“Take care of your body, as its the only place where you will live” — Jim Rohn