We all know the physical benefits that come with being active: from a healthy heart and improved circulation to improved bone health and reduced risk of some illnesses. But, with physical and mental health being so intertwined, exercise is known to also have profound impacts on our mental wellbeing. To stay healthy, adults aged 19-64 should try to be active daily and it is recommended that we do at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week.
How keeping active can benefit your mental wellbeing
- Feel less depressed or anxious
- Concentrate better
- Sleep better
- Feel good about yourself, improving your self-worth and confidence
- Help combat addictive behaviours that may negatively impact your physical health, such as smoking and drinking alcohol.
You can also try exercising in daylight, especially in winter. Daylight, whether it’s sunny or not, helps give you the extra energy you need to be active, helps with sleep as it contributes to establishing our natural circadian pattern, and can also boost your vitamin D intake.
Vitamin D has been found to be essential for good brain development and functioning and having low levels are associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), depression and anxiety.