Today closes out May as mental health month.
Its important that we keep the benefits of exercise on our mental health at the forefront of our thoughts year-round. Today we may feel strong but at any given time we could be faced with a stressful situation in life that will demand mental resiliency.
A recent study found among 1.2 million adults mental health issues were reduced by over 43% for those that exercised regularly. In fact, the greatest reduction in poor mental health was in those that exercised with a team or community. Connecting with other people and exercising is powerful medicine.
The benefits extend beyond the calm mental state experienced post workout often referred to as “Runners High”. Regular exercise helps new blood vessels grow in the brain and may also produce new brain cells. All this makes the brain less reactive to physical and emotional stress. You will be better prepared for those challenges that life will present, not if but when.
Bottom line:
Exercise regularly with a community of like-minded people for improved mental health and resiliency.
