One of the things I am working on for myself and my family is improving my mood! I suffer with depression and anxiety, which can often times make me hard to live with.
I have done a ton of research on ways to naturally improve your mood. One that shocked me at 1st but has helped me a ton, is just getting up and moving. Exercise even if just in small amounts has helped me out a great deal.
I simply started by getting on my treadmill and walking at a slow pace for 20 minutes 3 times a week. I am hoping to start doing much more and for longer periods.
So lets look at some facts about how exercise can improve your mood.
Helps chronic depression by increasing serotonin (which helps your brain regulate mood, sleep and appetite) or brain-derived neurotrophic factor (which helps neurons to grow).
Reduces immune system chemicals that can make depression worse.
Increases your level of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.
Helps by getting your sleep patterns back to normal. We know getting enough sleep can protect the brain from damage. Even short bursts of exercise in the morning or afternoon can help regulate your sleep patterns. If you prefer to exercise at night, relaxing exercises such as yoga or gentle stretching can help promote sleep.
Gives you a focused activity that can help you feel a sense of accomplishment.
Limits the effect of stress on your brain.
Can sharpen memory and thinking. The same endorphins that make you feel better also help you concentrate and feel mentally sharp for tasks at hand. Exercise also stimulates the growth of new brain cells and helps prevent age-related decline.
Can give you higher self-esteem. Regular activity is an investment in your mind, body, and soul. When it becomes habit, it can foster your sense of self-worth and make you feel strong and powerful. You’ll feel better about your appearance and, by meeting even small exercise goals, you’ll feel a sense of achievement.
Will give you more energy. Increasing your heart rate several times a week will give you more get-up-and-go. Start off with just a few minutes of exercise per day, and increase your workout as you feel more energized.
Helps you build a stronger resilience. When faced with mental or emotional challenges in life, exercise can help you cope in a healthy way, instead of resorting to alcohol, drugs, or other negative behaviors that ultimately only make your symptoms worse. Regular exercise can also help boost your immune system and reduce the impact of stress.
Now mind you exercise is extremely helpful but when you suffer from chronic depression, anxiety, and stress it is always good to consider other ways to help you cope.
I am on a plethora of supplements and am very careful about what I put into my body to help keep my Microbiom in order. I will do a post about the importance of your gut in mental wellness very soon.
Until Then...........
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