Can Exercise Actually Ease Your Depression?

Exercise may not necessarily be a replacement for medical treatment of all levels of depression, but it can ,however, ease mild, moderate and even severe cases. In a follow up study to the Harvard study  that we discussed previously, the long term effects were also noted down.

A whole 6 months after the study took place, it was found out that all of the participants who engaged in regular exercise were far less likely to relapse back into depression, regardless of which initial treatment they were given.

Regardless of how depression may be treated, exercise can always provide a safe and non invasive method of treatment. While it is known that anti-depressant medication has a much more immediate effect, the effects of exercise actually last longer. In addition, there are no negative side effects of exercise, while the anti-depressants show a rather long list of risks and side effects.

Researchers have also noted that while regular exercise is a pretty simple and also an effective method of treatment, it can be very difficult to find the motivation to start exercise, especially do it every day, when you suffer from depression. The real challenge is often just getting oneself to not only get started on exercising but actually maintain conssitency by doing it every day.

Other positives of Exercise

Working out is more than a way to improve mood. Breaking out of emotional problems is just one of the many benefits of exercise. The other effects of exercise include reducing blood pressure, improving cardiovascular function, moderating blood sugar levels, and protecting against heart disease, cancer and other ailments.

Depending on the exercise you do, you may also become stronger, more flexible, improve balance, improve coordination and more.

What Exercise you should do

The US Surgeon general report recommends engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate activity almost each day to reap the benefits of physical activity. Moderate activities can include gardening, brisk walking, and more intense activities as well. A great way to stay motivated is to make a plan which forces you to stay consistent.

For example, join a team sport which you must show up for. A friendly soccer or baseball league is a simple way to meet other, like minded people, who are looking to get a little bit of physical activity in their week. You can also join a class; have you ever wanted to learn a style of dance? Or for a more  zen option, take a regular pilates or yoga class.

Joining with a friend can also help to keep you motivated. A workout buddy should be at about the same fitness level as yourself and won't take no for an answer when you don't feel like exercising. You should be able to motivate each other and laugh together.

Take part in activities 4 to 7 days per week. It does not always need to be the same; when you're not sure what to do, go for a brisk walk for 20 to 30 minutes. Working out is a great way to help ease symptoms of depression, as long as you can stay committed and consistent.