New Research Shows How Regular Exercise Can Improve Your Mental Health
Many people know that regular exercise is important for maintaining physical health, but recent research has shown that it can also have a positive impact on mental health. In a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, researchers found that people who exercised for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, had significantly lower rates of depression and anxiety than those who did not exercise.
The study looked at over 1,000 adults and found that those who exercised regularly were 25% less likely to develop depression or anxiety over the course of a year than those who did not exercise. The researchers also found that people who exercised for longer periods of time or at higher intensity levels had even lower rates of depression and anxiety.
The exact mechanism behind how exercise affects mental health is not yet fully understood, but researchers believe that it may have to do with the release of endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that can improve mood and reduce stress. Exercise may also help improve self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment, both of which can contribute to overall mental well-being.
If you’re looking to improve your mental health, adding regular exercise to your routine may be a good place to start. Whether it’s going for a jog, taking a yoga class, or lifting weights at the gym, finding a form of exercise that you enjoy can help you stay motivated and make it easier to stick with your new routine.