Mental Health the Gym
When we talk about health at the YMCA people often assume that we are only referring to your physical health… things like how much you can lift or how fast and far you can run. What we don’t often consider is the bigger picture of overall health.
Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. These states of mental health influence our cognition, perception, and behavior. According to the World Health Organization, mental health refers to a “state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her abilities can cope with the normal stresses of life can work productively and fruitfully and can contribute to his or her community”. One’s mental health determines how they handle stress, how they make decisions as well as how they function in relationships with others.
Studies have shown that physical fitness and exercise have a clear link to mental health. Regular exercise and a healthy diet will decrease risk of mental illness and substance abuse. Not only does getting active release the feel-good chemicals inside our brains to improve our mood, but it also helps to distract from any negative thought patterns. Physical activity helps improve our sleep and our cognitive function while helping to reduce the risk of anxiety and depression.
Physical Activity Will:
- Boost your endorphin levels which triggers positive feelings in our bodies.
- Reduce stress by helping to relax the muscles and relieve tension in the body. Movement can create a calming effect for your body.
- Improve self-confidence.
- Improves anxiety symptoms in a natural way.
- Lead to improved sleep over time and more energy.
- Improve work productivity and increase alertness.
Ways to Improve Your Mental Health:
- Exercise regularly and stay active overall.
- Talk to friends and family.
- Follow a good sleep routine.
- Do things that make you happy!
- Eat a healthy balanced diet.
- Relax, and practice some deep breathing.
- Challenge your negative thoughts.
- Learn your stress triggers and how to manage them.
- Share your feelings.
- Learn how to problem solve effectively.
- Don’t be afraid to seek help if needed.
As we move into fall and the weather gets cooler take a walk outside and reap the benefits of both physical activity and the fresh air. Did you know that exposure to natural light has been shown to improve your mood and increase your self esteem especially when it’s paired with activity? Just 20-30 minutes a day spent outdoors can significantly reduce cortisol levels and lower stress. So why not get the benefits of both? Take a walk with a friend, go for a bike ride outside or do some gardening.
The bottom line is… take time to squeeze in things that make you happy, fulfilled, and relaxed. Look for happy moments and when you can’t find them, create them. Come to a class, grab a great book or simply sit and reflect on the good.
If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, call or text: 988.
Anna Stech, Armbrust YMCA Health & Wellness Director
