Ways to Move Your Body for Your Mind

Exercise is important for physical health. It helps to build and maintain muscle, and improve the function of your heart and lungs.

Alongside the physical benefits that are provided by regular exercise, there are also a number of benefits for your mental health.

Benefits of Exercise On Your Mental Health

Let’s quickly take a look at how physically moving your body can be amazing for your mind.

• It can increase the production of serotonin and dopamine, two hormones that are responsible for mood stabilization and motivation.
• It enhances the production of active vitamin D in the skin when you exercise outside
• It improves your social health if you exercise with a partner or group of people
• Your focus and concentration will be enhanced
• It boosts your self-awareness
• You have a goal to work towards
• It boosts your confidence and self-esteem

Best Exercises for Your Mental Health

Ultimately, the best forms of exercise for your mind are those that you love. Doing something you genuinely enjoy will increase your happy hormone production and makes it easier for you to maintain a regular schedule.

If you’re not sure which type of movement you enjoy the most, the following forms of exercise are known to be beneficial for your mind, as well as your body.

• Yoga - one of the most well-known forms of exercise that improves your mind and body is yoga. It involves performing a variety of strength-based movements that work your core, upper body, and lower body muscles while focusing your attention on the present moment.
• Tai Chi - along with yoga, Tai Chi is known to stimulate the muscles and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the calming branch of your autonomic nervous system.
• Walking - something as simple as walking can be an effective way to move your body and relax your mind. Try walking outside in nature if possible, so that you can breathe in the fresh air and feel the sun on your skin.