Exercise in Symptom Management
Exercise is good for mental health as well as physical health:
Improved self-esteem is a key psychological benefit of exercising regularly. Exercise can also reduce symptoms of sadness, anxiety, depression, irritability, stress, fatigue, anger and hopelessness.
Combining counselling and exercise:
A growing volume of research literature provides ample evidence to show that there is a definite relationship between exercise and improved mental health, and that the combination of exercise and counselling may be the most effective of all.
How exercise helps:
Thirty minutes to an hour of exercise a day such as running, walking, dancing swimming, gym, can significantly improve health, well-being, increase energy levels, reduce stress and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Even smaller amounts of activity, as little as ten to fifteen minutes at a time, can improve mood. When you exercise your body produces endorphins. Endorphins are chemicals which not only reduce your perception of pain, but also triggers a positive feeling, or feel-good factor. This helps to release muscle tension, helps you sleep better, and reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It also increases body temperature which has a calming effect on the mind and body.
The more you are on your feet, the more you exercise. Take the stairs, walk rather than drive to the local shop. Make sure you are wearing the right shoes. You won’t get moving if your feet aren’t happy.
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