It's no secret that regular exercise is great for your physical health, but did you know that it can also have a positive impact on your mental well-being?

Research shows that there are numerous mental health benefits to exercise, from reducing stress and anxiety to improving memory and cognitive function.

Looking for further motivation to lace up your sneakers and take Sparky for an extra-long walk? Keep reading as we explore the science behind the mental health benefits of exercise.

Here are five reasons why you should consider making physical activity a regular part of your mental health routine.

1. Exercise reduces stress and anxiety: When you're feeling stressed or anxious, it can be challenging to find relief. However, studies have shown that just 30 minutes of exercise a day can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. In fact, one study reports that exercise is 1.5 times better at reducing mental health disorders than psychotherapy or medication. Exercise releases endorphins, which can lift your mood and provide a natural boost of energy. Plus, sweating during exercise can help you feel like you're releasing built-up tension.

2. Exercise improves memory and cognitive function: As we age, our brains change, and cognitive function can decline. However, regular exercise can help slow this decline. Exercise has been shown to improve memory and thinking skills, which can help with everything from work performance to everyday tasks. Researchers have proved that exercise has been linked to the growth of new brain cells in the hippocampus, a part of the brain that is critical for memory.

3. Exercise boosts self-confidence: When we exercise, we often feel a sense of accomplishment. Whether we increase the amount of weight we lift, run a little further than we did before, or simply complete a workout, our bodies release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward. This feeling of accomplishment can boost our self-confidence and help us feel better about ourselves overall.

4. Exercise promotes better sleep: Sleep is critical for overall health, and yet so many people struggle with getting enough restful sleep each night. Exercise can help promote better sleep by reducing stress and anxiety, creating a sense of calm, and regulating our body's natural sleep-wake cycle. Just be sure to exercise earlier in the day so as not to disrupt your sleep. Read about 5 Possible Reasons You’re Not Sleeping here.

5. Exercise provides a healthy outlet for emotions: Sometimes, we need a way to release our emotions in a healthy way. Exercise can be an excellent outlet for this, allowing us to work through our emotions while also benefiting our bodies. From punching a bag during a kickboxing class to going for a run to clear your mind, exercise can provide a much-needed release when you're feeling overwhelmed or emotional.

The Takeaway

The science behind these benefits is clear, if you're looking for a way to improve your mental well-being, consider making exercise a regular part of your routine. You might be surprised at the positive impact it can have on your life.

Indeed, mental health is just one of the many perks of exercise. Head to our blog on the 7 Surprising Benefits of Exercise for more reasons to move.

We encourage you to play a proactive role in your health. Take a moment to browse our website, featuring a myriad of blogs discussing how diet and lifestyle choices impact health. And while you’re there, discover our complete line of digestive products that are all science-backed. 

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1 https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/57/18/1203

2 https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnins.2018.00052/full