According to a 2021 study, approximately one in five (57.8 million) American adults face a mental illness. These illnesses do not discriminate and can affect anyone. While seeking professional care and treatment is the best thing you can do for your mental health concerns, there is a lot that you can do at home to boost your mood and mind. A healthy mind starts with healthy physical activities.
The Link Between Physical Activities and Endorphins
According to the National Cancer Institute, endorphins are “one of several substances made in the body that can relieve pain and give a feeling of well-being.” These substances are small proteins, or peptides, that attach to the opioid receptors in an individual’s nervous system. They act as neurotransmitters providing the body with a feel-good reaction.
How can you get this feel-good experience for yourself? You can do many things at home to initiate the release of endorphins throughout your body. By participating in various exercises and physical activities, you will be providing your body with exactly what it needs to get those endorphins flowing. Even laughter and being out in the sun will provide a healthy dose of endorphins that will boost your overall mood, making you feel happy and healthy.
Choosing the Best Physical Activities for You
Exercising isn’t just a fad that will fade with time. It is a lifestyle change that is sure to boost your mental health, mood, and overall attitude. If you are not already active, the thought of starting something new may be intimidating. Don’t be discouraged, though. With change comes exciting new experiences.
Go for a Walk
When starting anything new, it’s important to consult your doctor before making any impactful decisions. Taking a walk is the best way to introduce your body to exercise, especially if you don’t typically participate in physical activities. The simple act of walking works your whole body gently while promoting all the feel-good benefits of endorphins.
Experience Nature
For a more intense workout, hiking is an excellent way to level up your walking experience. Not only will you experience a whole body boost, but you will also get excellent sun exposure and enjoy nature the way it was meant to be enjoyed. Also, a higher life expectancy is associated with people who exercise regularly. Hiking and walking are both wonderful choices for cardio. Additionally, biking is another option that will provide you with similar desired health effects.
Find Your Zen
Taking up yoga is a superb physical activity that exercises your whole body while simultaneously training your mind. Yoga comes in many shapes and sizes and varies in intensity. Try out different forms and find the best option for you. Joining group yoga can have added benefits that individual yoga is lacking. Participating in group physical activities of any kind provides camaraderie, which can open new doors for other hobbies and ways to exercise.
Additionally, meditation frequently coexists with yoga and is very beneficial to an individual’s mental health. Attaining calmness in the body and mind helps to alleviate depression and anxiety levels while providing you with a valuable tool to combat stress factors in your life. Pairing meditation with yoga provides a full-circle experience for both your mind and body.
How Diet Plays a Role in Mental Health
While exercise provides a plethora of benefits, it is important to remember that what you eat and drink also plays a significant role in your mind and body. By comprising a healthy diet filled with foods that are high in nutrients, you stand to reap the numerous benefits that follow. One study displayed a decrease in depressive symptoms has been found in people who have changed to healthier diets.
Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, as well as healthy proteins like nuts and fish, can significantly help to alleviate the effects of depression. Take special care to steer clear of foods that will have adverse effects on your mental health. These include but are not limited to alcohol and food that is high in fat content and calories. When you eat healthier and more natural foods, you are doing your mind and your body a wonderful favor.
Incorporating Treatment Into Physical Activities
There is no question that physical activities bring priceless benefits to your life, from healthy weight loss to promoting positivity and happiness. In cases like depression and anxiety, however, obtaining proper treatment is essential to recovery and overall mental health management.
When you combine the right professional care with healthy exercise, you have the best recipe for achieving your highest potential. Everyone deserves happiness, and that includes you. Choosing to put yourself first isn’t an easy decision for anyone, but it’s the best thing you can do for your future self.
Physical activities are a superb addition to any health regime that boosts both physical and mental health. When confronted with conditions such as depression, anxiety, or other concerns, professional treatment is necessary for recovery. The right care will not only help you to achieve your recovery goals but will also help to boost your overall quality of life. You deserve all that life has to offer, and that includes enjoying a joyous world free of anxiety, stress, and depression. Pairing physical activities with top-of-the-line treatment is the best thing you can do for yourself. At Avalon Malibu, our mission is to help you reach your highest potential free of mental health concerns. Call us today at (844) 857-5992.
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