How Your Mental Health Reaps the Benefits of Exercise

My last post concerned that beneficial effects of exercise on physical functioning. Research also shows large benefits for mental health. Studies are now showing that exercise appears to be as good as existing drug treatments across a range of conditions, such as mild to moderate depression, anxiety, and dementia.
We do not have to do marathons. Just about any amount is beneficial. Below is a great article from Psychology Today on this issue.

How Your Mental Health Reaps the Benefits of Exercise

New research shows why physical exercise is essential to mental health.

Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms

Good article from Mayo Clinic on how exercise can help with depression and anxiety. I am board certified in rehabilitation and continually discuss the benefits of activity and exercise with my patients. Did you know that exercise has been shown to be as effective as drug therapy for mild and moderate depression, and it can help with anxiety syndromes? Only 30 minutes 5 times per week can have significant benefits and even 10-15 minutes per day can be beneficial. It does not have to be structured....taking the stairs instead of an elevator or escalator is exercise.Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms