The Role Of Exercise In The Fight Against Depression

Did you know that depression is responsible for dire mental and physical conditions if left untreated? Fortunately, you don’t have to schedule regular meetings with a therapist to help you find relief from depression. Studies show that any dose of physical activity like brisk walking is instrumental in lowering the risk of depression.

Benefits of physical activity like exercise are realized when a depressed individual begins the journey from no activity to the smallest form of movement. Recommended levels of exercise as per the CDC include aerobic activity like a brisk walk for 2.5 hours a week besides a workout of major muscle groups at least twice a week.

You may also opt for aerobic exercises like running for 1.25 hours a week and strength training. The CDC denotes that moderate to vigorous exercise is good for you as it lowers blood pressure, improves sleep, reduces stress, boosts moods, and protects against cancer, diabetes, and heart conditions.

Despite the proven benefits of exercise in the fight against depression, most people cannot visit the gym or fit in a jog due to the lack of motivation for exercise. According to a study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, adults involved in activities equivalent to 1.25 hours of brisk walking each week were 18% less vulnerable to depression. Folks are encouraged to adopt active lifestyles to boost mental and physical health.

Advise your friends and loved ones to adopt better and healthier lifestyles like household chores, playing instruments, painting, biking, swimming, or walking to ensure they are safe from depression.