The Benefits of Physical Activity for Your Mental Health
Physical activity is an important and proven factor for not only physical fitness, but also mental health. It can improve the way you feel about life, how you interact with others, and your general well-being. These benefits are not limited to adults either. Children and adolescents who get enough physical activity can also see improvements to their overall health, especially when coupled with healthy sleep habits and thoughtful nutritional choices.
What does physical activity do for my physical and mental health?
Exercise has been shown to reduce or manage the following:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Negative mood
- Weight
- Stress
- Fatigue
- Cholesterol and other health-related markers of health
Exercise has been shown to increase the following:
- Self-esteem
- Social interactions
- Cognitive function
- Overall energy levels
How much physical activity should I do?
Research shows 150 minutes (2.5 hours) of moderate activity throughout the week is sufficient to reap these health benefits. These minutes do not need to be continuous to see changes to your mental health, so find what works best for your schedule.
If you're not sure what types of activities are right for you, we recommend trying different programs or visiting a Montage Wellness Center. Not everyone enjoys the same types of movement, so don't be afraid to experiment until you discover what works best for you and your family.
