Physical activity has been shown to improve not only physical health but also improve mental health symptoms.
If you are suffering from mental health symptoms it can be hard to get your body moving if your mind is distracted.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, people who were likely to experience mental health concerns were much more likely to report having a chronic medical condition and vice versa.
The benefits of exercise include:
- Improve mood and reduce mental health symptoms
- Help you have a healthy routine
- Improve sleep
- Keep you conditioned to assist with recovery
- Help you manage any pain that may result in inactivity and medication side effects
- Improve physical outcomes
- Improve self-esteem, confidence and brain function
If you struggle with maintaining a good physical activity habit, try to start by doing just one bit of exercise each day. For example, commit to leaving the house for a walk once daily. Don’t aim for a big walk, it might be just 5-10 minutes some days. As your habit grows you will find it easier to add more exercise into your day. Then the benefits will flow.
As physiotherapists, we can tailor an exercise program to suit your lifestyle and fitness level and coach you with ways to get it happening.
