When it comes to exercise, many see it as something that is great for their physical health. While that is very true, it is important to know that it also has positive effects on one’s mental health. You are not just building muscle or improving your endurance level- you are working on your whole self.
In light of Mental Health Awareness Month, we wanted to share some information on how exercise helps our minds. This post will go into the details on the mental health benefits of engaging in regular planned movement and how EA Therapeutic Health can be of great assistance in obtaining full-body wellness.
Understanding the Mind-Body Connection
The mind-body connection refers to the interplay that exists between our mind and body. They influence each other which in turn has an impact on more than one area of ourselves.
In terms of mental health, the exercises that work our bodies end up triggering the release of brain chemicals called, neurotransmitters. These chemicals play an important role in how we feel, mentally. Here are the specific neurotransmitters that effect our mental state:
- Serotonin- This one is known as a mood stabilizer as it regulates and helps us to feel happy.
- Norepinephrine- This neurotransmitter provides the body with the “fight or flight” response to stress.
- Endorphins- These help reduce pain and help one to have feelings of pleasure and happiness.
- Dopamine- This is known as a reward chemical. It gets released when one does something they find rewarding and enjoyable.
- GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)- This neurotransmitter provides a calming effect as it reduces excitability in our brains.
Exercise and Mental Health Benefits
Regular exercise is a habit that is just as important for mental health as it is for physical health. Finding out which type of exercise resonates with you is key for consistency.
The following are some ways that engaging in exercise can have positive effects on our mental health:
- Stress and Anxiety Reduction- Getting in a physical activity such as aerobic exercise, can increase and regulate the body’s level of endorphins (the feel-good chemical) and norepinephrine. This can help one to reduce stress and manage anxiety better.
- Mood Improvement and Depression- Exercise increases the levels of the feel-good brain chemicals (including endorphins, serotonin and dopamine) which then improves one’s emotional well-being.
- Boost Confidence- Regular exercise can help one feel more confident as they may get a sense of accomplishment for sticking with it. Along with a good diet, exercise will also go towards a healthy body weight which may improve one’s self-esteem.
- Foster Social Connection- Engaging in exercise and physical activity around other people can forge social connections with like-minded individuals. Having support and enjoyable times with others can help to promote mental well-being.
- Improve Cognitive Function and Brain Health- Exercising has been shown to help with memory, focus and cognitive flexibility. It also may reduce the risk of cognitive decline down the line.
How EA Can Help
At EA Therapeutic Health, we are well aware that exercise and physical activity can have positive effects on mental health. In fact, we believe that exercise is medicine and crucial for an overall healthy life. Our approach to physical therapy and personal training reflects this as it is holistic and specialized.
We strive to get each client on the path to full-body wellness which includes the mind. The following are ways that we do just that:
- Mindful Movement- We guide clients through purposeful exercises and movements that are tailored to their needs. These release feel-good chemicals that enhance mood and reduce stress.
- Goal Setting- We help each client set and work towards goals in their physical therapy and/or personal training plans. Making progress and reaching them boosts one’s self esteem and feelings of self-worth.
- Holistic Pain Management- We use special techniques to treat pain issues. This in turn has a positive affect on one’s mental wellbeing as physical pain takes a toll on people.
- State-of-the-Art Equipment- Our facility has high-quality equipment that we utilize to help clients on their health journeys. An example of one is the Neubie device which can reduce anxiety and stress by way of resetting the autonomic system through gentle direct electrical current.
- A Supportive Environment- At EA, clients get to connect with their therapists and fellow clients receiving care. Having human connection like this reduces possible feelings of loneliness and promotes self worth.
- A Neurological Approach- We specialize in neurologic-focused therapy at EA. This allows us to set clients up with wellness plans that provide long lasting results. It also helps people with neurological conditions (such as Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis) see improvements in their brain health.
- Psychosocial Care- At EA, we take into consideration the psychological and social aspects of health conditions and address them. This helps with the emotional part of living with their condition and causes mental health improvements.
Exercise isn’t just wonderful for your body- it also nurtures your mind. When you prioritize physical activity on regular basis, you are setting the stage for overall wellness and a great life.
Are you ready to experience the mental health benefits of exercise? Contact us to discuss your health needs and goals so that we can get you on the path to full-body wellness. Keep up with all the exciting happenings at EA by following us on Facebook or Instagram.