There are both physical and emotional benefits to exercising when you have anxiety and depression. Understanding these benefits, as well as finding an exercise program that works for you, can help you to get the most out of your exercise regimen. Discuss with your physician whether you can incorporate physical activity into your daily routine to help you manage the symptoms of your mental condition.
Physical Benefits
There are many physical benefits to exercising when you have anxiety and depression. Some of these include increasing brain chemicals such as neurotransmitters and endorphins that are responsible for mood stabilization, reducing chemicals in the immune system that can worsen the symptoms of depression, and increasing body temperature, which may help to calm feelings of anxiety.
Emotional Benefits
There are also emotional benefits to exercising that can affect the symptoms of anxiety and depression. When you go to the gym you have the chance to socialize, which can reduce feelings of sadness and worry associated with these mental conditions. Exercising can also distract your mind and allow you to focus on positive thoughts, and it can also allow you to gain confidence as you meet personal fitness goals.
Types of Exercise
Several types of exercise are thought to have an affect on anxiety. Engaging in light to moderate activity such as biking, swimming, jogging, walking, dancing or low-impact aerobics can get your heart pumping while improving your mood. Other activities that may give you a sense of accomplishment and help with depression and anxiety are light housework, gardening, playing tennis or doing yoga. Ask your doctor which activities could help, and whether they should be done in conjunction with other treatment methods such as psychotherapy or medication.
Duration
Clement Clinic suggests exercising at least 30 minutes, four to five times a week, to reap the maximum benefits. Start your exercise program slowly and increase your intensity gradually until you are at a comfortable pace and exercise level that suits your needs. Setting yourself a schedule for your exercise routine can make fitting it into your life much easier. The key to exercising is to stick with it. Even when you are having a bad day or your symptoms are flaring up, getting in some physical activity can make all the difference.
