How Exercise Can Help You Battle Depression

Depression is an all-encompassing disease that can completely take over your life.

It can leave you feeling entirely alone, unmotivated and miserable.

However, exercise might just be the key to fighting back and beating depression.

Although the thought of even attempting to get out of bed in the morning can be tough when you feel depressed, something as simple as taking a brisk walk around the block can be enough to boost your mood and improve your mental wellbeing.

Read on to find out just how exercise can help you battle depression.

Any kind of exercise will do

It does not matter what kind of exercise you do – simply getting out there and getting active can do you the world of good if you suffer with depression.

Whether it’s walking your dog, hitting the gym or practicing yoga, getting your body moving will get you one step closer to beating depression.

Exercise = endorphins

It is a well-known fact that exercise releases endorphins.

Endorphins are chemicals that interact with the receptors in your brain to reduce your perception of pain, and also trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to morphine.

This is why many people often feel a ‘high’ after exercising.

Improved self-esteem

Another reason why exercise is perfect for people with depression is because it helps to boost your self-esteem.

This is partly thanks to the release of endorphins, but also because you know you are making a positive step for your physical health, which will in turn improve your physique and therefore your self-esteem.

Routine

Another positive that comes from exercise, particularly for those with depression, is that it adds to your routine.

It can be difficult for people with depression to feel as though they have any purpose in life and so many suffering with severe depression will have very little routine, as they might feel as though there is nothing to get out of bed for in the morning.

However, by incorporating regular exercise, which makes them feel good, into their day, this becomes part of their routine and therefore helps them to break the cycle of depression.

Distraction technique

Exercise is also the perfect way to distract yourself from worries and feelings of anxiety you may have, making it perfect for depression sufferers.

It allows you to take your mind off your negative thoughts and gives your mind a much-needed break whilst you work out your body.