exercise
Research consistently confirms exercise as the most effective treatment for depression by far.
Exercise increases vitality and energy levels and reduces the release of stress hormones. When blood flow improves so does happiness, intelligence, digestion, alertness, tolerance of stress and health.
Overeating reduces as the body's regulatory mechanisms work better and life becomes more interesting.
We are our body. If we don't walk we lose our legs. If we don't talk we lose our tongues. If we don't exercise we lose mental capacity, fitness and flexibility.
Health and fitness bring confidence. Exercising regularly brings action into other parts of our life.
|
suggestions |
|
|
• |
walk instead of drive |
|
• |
walk somewhere every day |
|
• |
walk with a friend |
|
• |
bush walk |
|
• |
walk or bike to shops |
|
• |
Join a walking running, biking or swimming group and go on outings. |
|
• |
Take up a sport. |
|
• |
If you are tired start with light exercise |
|
• |
If you are confined to bed or a chair move your body as much as possible within that space and get some help if need be. |
|
• |
Work out vigorously sometimes, out of the comfort zone through the pain barrier. |
|
• |
Make sure it is enjoyable. |
Swimming and biking exercise the whole body without hammering joints.
Exercise generates pleasurable hormones. When extreme exercise becomes addictive and difficult to moderate it is possible to drive joints and organs to destruction. The body gives plenty of warning signs. Its just a matter of paying attention, seeking advice, researching safe equipment and ways of moving and taking enough time out.
Although muscle tensions from stress are inefficient and unbalance posture at least they provide exercise and muscle tone. After learning to relax more exercise might be needed to replace the tensions.
|
|
|
copyright (C) John Brasted 2008
updated 11/06/11
