At some point we all experience depression.
It is a soul killing experience that will make you feel like a living ghost during that time. When you are depressed, even regular tasks will feel excruciating and feel like a burden. Although there are medicines to cure depression, they are not the only solution. Scores of studies have proven that exercise is powerful in combating depression. In fact some studies suggest that it is even more effective than any medication. It also helps people save on medical bills and also curtail the intake of drugs with harmful side effects.
Here are four ways in which exercise helps combat depression:
Mood elevating hormones
Exercise stimulates your body into releasing hormones like norepinephrine, a hormone that enhances cognitive thinking, aids learning and enhances mood. Exercise also elevates heart rate and this can potentially reverse brain atrophy commonly caused by stress. Exercise forces different systems of the body to communicate better and prepare it to respond better to anxiety and stress.
Improves confidence level
Studies have shown that people with obesity are common victims of low self-esteem. That’s because they realize that their appearance is different from everyone else’s. Moreover, their inabilities to perform various common daily tasks with ease also adds to their depression level. Regular exercise helps body release endorphins which is a feel good hormone (good to combat depression) and eventually leads to weight loss.
Improves lives of people with medical conditions
Exercise helps people with medical conditions live better lives. Certain medical conditions can seriously limit mobility. For example, severe thyroid conditions can badly damage knees and restrict movement. However, exercise can lead to big improvements in the condition and also help people living with these conditions lead a healthier and happier life. Regular exercise also helps relieve (or ease) scores of health issues such as hypertension, diabetes and several other chronic medical conditions and lifestyle diseases.
Exercise makes you feel more energetic
The busy lifestyles most of us live actually lead to a more sedentary lifestyle. This puts us at risk of lifestyle disorder. Lack of physical activity also impacts our ability handle stress. Starting a day with exercise helps fight stress, eliminate negative thoughts, and enables us to become more productive throughout the day, leading to feelings of contentment and joy.
Turn your life around with a regular workout regime. You will live a healthier and happier life. Exercise is the best medicine for depression.
XOXO,
Rosalidia Dubon
