Exercise has been found to help improve the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Evidence suggests that exercise raises the levels of certain mood-enhancing neurotransmitters in the brain. Exercise may also boost feel-good endorphins, release muscle tension, help you sleep better, and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It also increases body temperature, which may have calming effects. All of these changes in your mind and body can improve such symptoms as sadness, anxiety, irritability, stress, fatigue, anger, self-doubt and hopelessness (mayoclinic.com). By substituting exercise in for medication (when appropriate) it can help improve your mood while avoiding the negative side effects of some medications.
If you are looking to improve your mood through exercise set realistic and attainable goals. Start with just 10 minutes a day of brisk walking. Pick a nice park or waterfront, enjoy the open air and get some exercise. From there start increasing the amount of time, and the intensity (from a walk to a jog), also try several different kinds of exercise to keep it interesting. The goal is to eventually get to 30minutes 3-5 days a week. Make sure to take note of your mood before and after exercise so that you can see improvements, this will help you to stay motivated!
*Consult your physician before starting a new exercise program
*Don't stop taking any prescribed medications before talking to your physician first
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