Summer! Summer! Summer’s here at last! This is a time most turn to exercise as we stress about getting our bodies beach ready. Exercise requires physical effort and it’s carried out to sustain or improve physical and mental health.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number one leading cause of death is cardiovascular disease. Causes of cardiovascular disease such as diabetes or high cholesterol are linked to obesity. It’s no wonder why market research shows that the U.S. weight loss market grew at an estimated 4.1% in 2018, from $69.8 billion to $72.7 billion and the total market forecast is a growth of 2.6% annually through 2023. Exercise is really crucial to both physical and mental health as a whole.
Studies show that physical activity causes the release of endogenous opioids -endorphins —basically beta-endorphin. The effects of these substances on the central nervous system are responsible for the sensation of calm and improved mood experienced after exercise.
Regular exercise truly has a profound positive impact on mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. It also relieves stress, improves memory, helps you sleep better, and boosts your overall mood.
Exercise improves:
- Sleep
- Increased interest in sex
- Better endurance
- Stress relief
- Improvement in mood
- Increased energy and stamina
- Reduced tiredness that can increase mental alertness
- Weight reduction
- Reduced cholesterol and improved cardiovascular fitness
Exercise requires lifestyle modifications as it improves your health and quality of life. It has a positive impact on your mental health and should be emphasized and reinforced by every mental health professional to their patients.