The Importance of Exercise on Mental Health

I loved walking at Noonday Creek Trail in Fall 2019.

Exercise has a lot of health benefits not only in terms of physical health, but also mental health. The article, “The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise,” says that some benefits of exercise for mental health include “sharper memory and thinking, higher self-esteem, better sleep, more energy and stronger resilience.” It also says that one reason exercise can help people cope with anxiety is because exercise releases endorphins. Exercise can also help with stress and increase “physical and mental energy.” The article also says that it can be beneficial to practice mindfulness when exercising.

There are many different ways to get exercise whether that is running, yoga, cycling, swimming, being part of a workout class, etc. Exercise does not always have to be an intense workout; it can simply be walking and enjoying the fresh air outside. Walking is my favorite type of exercise because I like seeing the scenery, and it helps me cope with anxiety and stress.

This past fall, I especially liked taking walks and looking at the bright colors of the leaves. It makes me feel really grateful seeing the nature that surrounds me and sometimes animals that are outside. When the weather is nice outside, I like taking pictures of the sky, flowers or the animals that are outside.

A lot of the time when I am walking, I will listen to music. Sometimes I will also reflect on the progress I have made in my life while on my walk, which also helps me calm down.

I would encourage anybody to get exercise even if it’s just for 30 minutes out of their day.

Comment your favorite type of exercise below!