One hour of exercise per week will improve your mental health

Feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed? Try exercising. Australia’s Black Dog Institute performed a study which confirmed that a single hour of exercise per week is enough to help banish depression. If you’re feeling stressed, you should know that exercising will be the key to unlocking greater peace of mind. When stress goes unchecked, it builds up in our bodies and minds. It sets the stage for mental health issues and it may cause physical health problems, too. By embracing an active lifestyle, you’ll manage stress without medication. Exercising is a holistic approach to taking good care of yourself…and feeling better fast!

Best exercises for over 50s

To reduce the risk of stress-induced depression, or panic attacks which come on suddenly and make you feel trapped and powerless, start moving. According to the New Zealand Herald, your 50s is the right time to embrace low-impact exercise, rather than high-impact workouts or competitive team sports. Focus on building flexibility, endurance, strength, and conditioning. Restorative yoga will be a great option. Swimming is also a good choice, as the water acts as a cushion which helps to prevent injuries. You should always warm up before you work out. Older people need longer warm-ups than “spring chickens”.

Why does exercise de-stress the body and mind?

Even relatively short bursts of exercise offer impressive stress relief benefits. This is because the body produces endorphins during exercise, which are a group of “feel good” hormones. These hormones are secreted by the nervous system and the brain. They have a pain-relieving effect because they activate the opiate receptions within the brain. Also, endorphins elevate mood.

Understand the negative effects of stress

Fitness coach Carolyn Hansen, believes that regular exercise reduces the negative impacts of stress on every system of the body. Stress triggers the production of adrenaline and cortisol. These two hormones are linked with a plethora of health issues. By working out for just a single hour each week, you’ll lower adrenaline and cortisol levels in your body.

Put on your walking shoes today

If you’re looking for an easy way to get your hour of exercise each week, remember that New Zealand is an amazing place to explore on foot, via gentle hikes and strolls. It attracts adventurous over 50s from all over the world. Be sure to go on scenic walks in your town or city. When you do, you’ll access stress-busting endorphins that make it easier to cope with everyday problems or crisis situations.