We all have a general understanding of the benefits of exercise. They include strengthening muscles, reducing stress and playing an important factor in overall wellbeing. However, as many learned during the pandemic, lower levels of physical activity can have a negative impact on our mental health. To find realistic ways to manage physical AND mental health, we need to focus on understanding how our body and mind are connected, what it needs, and how we can use exercise to improve overall wellness.
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Research shows that regular exercise is not only important but critical to maintain positive mental health. It can even prevent depression and anxiety disorders, reduce day-to-day stress, increase happiness and lower levels of sadness and loneliness.
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With that being said, here are 4 ways to improve your body and mind:
Stimulation
Variety is the spice of life and that can be tricky when stuck at home. To keep your mind engaged and your body active, try infusing fun out-of-the-box elements to your normal fitness routine. That could mean downloading a fitness app, walking in a new neighborhood park or, once you’re able, joining a gym and kick-starting a new fitness adventure with guidance from a certified trainer.
Slow and Steady
It’s best to start slow and finish strong when exercising, especially with weights. Going light will still allow you to add positive stress to the muscles, while providing the chance to really perfect the form and mechanics of each exercise. This will ultimately create a better environment for muscle growth without causing too much stress on the body.
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Rest Actively
Incorporate what is called “active rest” during your cardio or between weightlifting sets. For example, if you’re on the treadmill jogging on an incline, decrease the incline or slow to a fast walk to catch your breath before speeding back up again. Doing so rather than stopping altogether keeps your body working and blood flowing as well as ensuring faster recovery for muscles.
Sensation
You always feel better after a workout than you did before you started. This is a result of your body releasing endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine from your brain. The best way to revel in that post-workout shine, is to share it with others! Bringing a friend along will not only add to the enjoyment of the workout, it’ll also allow you to unlock fun partner exercises you can do together and in the end, you both will bask in the benefits.
Feature image credit Jonathan Borba
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