8 Ways Working Out Promote Your Mental Health

Amy Taylor June 15, 2015

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One of the keys to a long and healthy life is regular exercise. Research has shown, over again, that physical activity brings many physical benefits, from stronger heart to leaner muscles and sexier physique. But it isn’t just your body that is benefited by adopting an active lifestyle. Your mental health benefits too. How?

By promoting brain function.

Can’t focus? Can’t think of a better way to solve an issue? Want to squeeze your creative juices? Work out. Numerous studies have shown that exercise promotes brain function, and the effects are almost immediately. In a study published in 2013 in the American Psychological Association Journal, it was found that exercise influences cognitive health almost immediately regardless of age. Specifically, exercise was linked to faster working memory. Another research by Harvard Medical School suggests working out helps with decision making, planning and learning new information.

By enhancing memory.

Having a sharp memory is a manifestation of strong mental health, and is needed in almost every area of life, from schooling to employment. According to a 2011 study by the University of Pittsburgh, exercise training increases size of hippocampus and improves memory. The hippocampus, which plays a big role in working memory, shrinks with age, which increases a person’s risk of impaired memory and dementia.

By boosting creativity

Having trouble thinking ‘outside the box’? A quick run or a short aerobic exercise can help squeeze your creative juices out. A 1997 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that physical exercise boosts creativity, regardless of the person’s mood.

By making you feel better and happier.

Feeling low? Work out. Bugged with negative thoughts? Sweat it out. There is a growing evidence suggesting that physical activity promotes positive emotions. It does it by triggering the release of endorphins – the natural chemicals in the brain that promote positive mood and sense of well-being.

By reducing stress.

Incorporating moderate to vigorous physical activity in your daily routine is a great way to fight the effects of stress on your body. The Mental Health Foundation recommends a daily dose of exercise for less tension, stress and mental fatigue, improved sleep, a natural energy boost, less frustration and feelings of anger, a healthy appetite, and better sense of well-being.

 By reducing symptoms of depression.

There is overwhelming evidence that exercise helps reduce symptoms of depression. According to a major study published in the American Psychological Association Journal, exercise can be an effective adjunct therapy for people suffering from depression. It is believed that exercise alleviates chronic depression by increasing serotonin (the neurotransmitter targeted by antidepressants) or brain-derived neurotrophic factor (which supports the growth of neurons). Another theory suggests exercise helps by normalising sleep, which is known to have protective effects on the brain.

By relieving anxiety.

Anxiety is one of the most common psychiatric illnesses which affect millions of people worldwide. Too much anxiety puts a huge toll on the brain, which could lead to more serious mental health problems in the long run. According to a 2011 study by Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction, exercise may help lessen anxiety symptoms, and could be a great option for anxiety disorder sufferers who can’t receive traditional medication.

By protecting against chronic mental illness.

Working out regularly has protective benefits against serious mental health conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease. In 2013, researchers from the University of Texas found that engaging in a physical exercise regimen helps healthy aging adults improve their memory, brain health and physical fitness. In the study, physically active participants who improved their memory performance also showed greater increase in brain blood flow to the hippocampus, the key brain region affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

The good news is that it is never too late to start exercising. No matter what age you are, working out can greatly benefit both your physical and mental health. If you are new to exercising or you have medical conditions that should be considered, talk to your GP first to know the best way for you to incorporate physical exercise in your day to day life.