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 Exercise for Good Mental Health
In case you need more reasons to be physically active, here is more evidence of why you need move. Recent research further demonstrates the link between regular physical activity and mental and emotional health. Exercise, Fitness Level and Depression: A large study of 5,451 men and 1,277 women tested participants’ level of aerobic fitness and compared it to their scores on a depression inventory and an emotional well-being assessment. Results showed that people with a higher fitness score has a lower risk of developing depression and had higher emotional well-being scores. In addition, when the participants were assessed for their activity level, results showed that for each increase in weekly miles of exercise completed, protection from depression and improved emotional well-being increased. In other words, the more participants exercised and the more fit they were, the better their mental and emotional health. Exercise and Risk of Dementia: A study of 1,740 mentally healthy people aged 65 and older were examined for six years to determine who developed dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Results showed that people who exercised at least 3 or more days per week were 32% less likely to develop dementia than those who exercised less than 3 days per week. The reduction of Alzheimer’s disease in exercisers was found to be similar to dementia. It is thought that the reason is due to improved circulation and oxygen transport to the brain during exercise which improves cognitive function. What it all Means: You may be able to take an active role in your mental and emotional health. Evidence continues to show that regular physical activity has a positive effect on your brain as well as helping your body; it is one of the key factors in being happy and emotionally healthy. In addition, moving your body could decrease your risk of developing more serious mental health problems including depression, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. Now, GET MOVING!
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