Physical exercise and mental health: understand the relationship

Exercising isn't just good for your body's aesthetics. In addition to health, which benefits directly from the results of a body in motion, the mind can also benefit from physical activity. But do you really know what the relationship is between physical exercise and mental health?

First of all, it's important to understand how the circadian cycle, or the body's biological clock, works. When you wake up early and are exposed to natural daylight, your body understands that it's daytime and that you need to wake up. When this activity becomes routine for several days in a row, your circadian rhythm adjusts, helping your body to feel sleepy at the right time and wake up in a better mood.

In addition, a series of substances are released at the right time, such as melatonin at night, to help you get a peaceful, restful sleep, and other hormones related to well-being during the day. And when you add exercise to your daily routine, everything is even better for your body.

Physical exercise and mental health: the sum that only brings benefits

Now that you've understood how your circadian rhythm or cycle works, it's important to talk about its relationship with physical exercise. When the body is put into motion, a series of hormones and substances are released. One of them is endorphin, which gives you a feeling of well-being and joy.

When this substance is released frequently, i.e. when you do physical activity regularly, it's another point for your body clock to adjust. Your body begins to understand your movement and routine and adjusts to it.

Mental health, in this respect, is greatly improved by the regular release of endorphins. With exercise, this substance becomes a constant, bringing benefits in the short, medium and long term when it comes to feeling good and willing.

Depression and anxiety improve with physical exercise

Frequent exercise doesn't just improve your well-being when you finish exercising. In the long term, the body perceives your physical activity as a constant and, with the adjustment of the circadian cycle, illnesses such as anxiety and depression also tend to have improved symptoms.

It's important to stress, however, that medical supervision is essential to treat these diseases. But practicing physical activity is part of the multidisciplinary treatment, which will contribute greatly to healing.

Self-esteem is an important ally of mental health

Another aspect that directly influences mental health is self-esteem. Exercising in this sense is also fundamental to feeling better and, consequently, psychologically healthier.

Seeing your body go through transformations and get closer to what you consider ideal, as well as being more willing to face the day is a boost for self-esteem, which will make you more confident and self-assured, improving your relationships and internal issues.

Have you seen how physical exercise and mental health have a direct relationship? So how about finding a sport that you enjoy and starting to practice it? It could be a walk in the street, a run or a sport you identify with. The important thing is to start!

Your condominium's fitness area can help you get started! Niss has several developments that offer this advantage to their residents. Check out the list in our website and choose your new home with a gym!