Mental Health Awareness Month
1 in 6 people experience mental health problems in the workplace and according to the World Health Organisation, over 12 billion working days are lost to depression and anxiety globally every year. Many psychologists believe that engaging in regular physical activity is the best way to alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression.
Let’s explore how it positively impacts our mental health:
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Mood Enhancement: When we engage in physical activity, our bodies release feel-good hormones that can improve our mood. Regular exercise acts as a natural mood booster, reducing feelings of anxiety and stress. It’s like a mental reset button!
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Boosting Self-Esteem and Confidence: Exercise helps build self-esteem and confidence. Achieving fitness goals, whether big or small, gives us a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
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Increased Motivation and Focus: Physical activity enhances our cognitive function. It sharpens our focus, making it easier to tackle daily tasks and challenges.
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Stress Reduction: Exercise is an excellent stressbuster. It helps dissipate tension, anxiety, and mental fatigue. When life feels overwhelming, a brisk walk or a yoga session can work wonders.
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Calming the Mind: Dealing with difficult emotions like anger, frustration, or sadness? Exercise provides an outlet. It calms the mind and allows us to process emotions more effectively.
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Social Connection: Whether it’s a group fitness class, a jog with a friend, or a team sport, exercise fosters social interaction. Connecting with others reduces loneliness and promotes mental wellbeing.