Daily physical exercise and mental health

In a previous article, we talked about the benefits of physical activity on mental health. In this article, we go further to describe the benefits for each form of exercise, even those in everyday life. By choosing the one that best suits your needs and integrating it effectively into your daily routine, you optimize your mental and physical health.

Types of Exercise Beneficial for Mental Health

From walking to running to yoga, these activities are known for their ability to improve mental health in different ways

Walking is an accessible form of exercise. It promotes relaxation. By enjoying the fresh air and nature around you, walking can help reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, walking provides the opportunity to meditate or reflect. This can provide mental clarity and promote problem solving.

Yoga, on the other hand, combines physical exercises with breathing and meditation techniques. Regular yoga practice can help reduce stress by calming the nervous system and promoting better emotion management. Additionally, yoga postures can improve mental strength and focus. This can have a positive impact on mental health.

Running is an activity that promotes the release of endorphins. They act as natural pain relievers and provide a feeling of well-being. In addition, running helps channel negative thoughts and strengthen mental resilience. By engaging in intense physical exertion, runners can experience an increase in self-confidence and a reduction in stress.

 

Daily activities matter!

There are several activities of daily living that can also count as physical activity. Here are some examples :

  • Housekeeping: Sweeping, vacuuming, washing dishes, and cleaning the house are tasks that use the body’s muscles and can constitute moderate physical activity.
  • Gardening: Taking care of the garden, planting, weeding or trimming hedges are activities that require constant physical effort, thus working different muscle groups.
  • Run errands on foot: Instead of taking the car for quick errands, running errands on foot can be a great way to add physical activity to your daily routine.
  • Take the stairs: Rather than taking the elevator, taking the stairs is an easy way to add exercise to your day.
  • Walk or cycle to get around: If you don’t need to go very far or conditions permit, opt for walking or cycling instead of taking public transport or driving.

It’s important to note that even these small physical activities of daily living can help improve mental and physical health, by increasing overall physical activity and burning calories. Incorporating these activities into your daily routine can help you stay active and healthy, even if you don’t have time for dedicated exercise.

 

Tips for incorporating exercise into your daily routine

Exercise is an essential habit for maintaining good mental and physical health, but incorporating it into your routine can be difficult, especially when you have a busy schedule. Here are some practical tips to help you incorporate exercise into your daily life, to maximize your mental and physical benefits.

Define your goals

The first step to incorporating exercise into your routine is to define your goals and dedicate time to them every day. You can start small, with 15 to 20 minute exercises. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workout. You can also incorporate exercise into your daily life.  Walk or bike to work. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Vary the type of exercise

To maximize the mental health benefits of exercise, it’s important to vary the types of exercise you do. Try different activities, such as yoga, walking, dancing or running. This allows you to discover what works best for you. Additionally, regularity is key to maximizing the mental health benefits of exercise. So try working out at the same time every day to create a habit.

Find the right time for yourself

For people with busy schedules, it can be difficult to find time for exercise. Try working out in the morning before you start your work day or during your lunch break. You can also use home fitness apps and online workout programs to work out without leaving your house.

Have fun

Finally, remember that exercise doesn’t have to be a chore: find activities you enjoy and enjoy them. Writing down your progress and accomplishments will inspire you to keep going. With persistence and a little planning, you can integrate exercise into your daily life in the long term, improving your physical and mental health.

In conclusion, each type of physical exercise offers unique mental health benefits. Walking promotes relaxation and reflection, yoga soothes the nervous system and strengthens concentration, while running releases endorphins and builds mental resilience. By integrating different types of physical activities into your routine, you can exploit these diverse benefits for optimal mental health.

 

Local resources

Do you need help improving your mental health? Counseling Services offers several programs. Communicate with the team. 

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