Ups and downs are a natural, inevitable part of combating poor mental health. Yet, in the brunt of it all, you can be encouraged that there are intentional steps that you can take to improve your physiological health when recovery seems overwhelming. You are not at the mercy of the highs and lows of your mental health journey; you can actively implement aspects such as exercise into your routine and assess how it makes you feel.
A Frontiers In Public Health study reflects that physical activity is essential for physical and physiological wellness. If you are currently struggling with debilitating mental health or difficulty during recovery, it may be worth considering regular exercise to keep those components at bay.
Different Forms of Exercise
When you decide that you would like to try exercising, it is essential to remember to be patient with yourself and your body. Exercise may often involve pushing your body past regulated comfort zones. Due to this, it is essential to listen to your mind and body so that you do not overdo it. There are many different forms of exercise, all involving different intensity levels.
You must select the correct method of training for you. Remember that although exercise’s benefits may breed similar results in our physiology, everyone’s body, skill level, and tolerance are different. Different forms of practice include:
- Yoga
- Cardio
- Lifting
- Cycling
- Dancing
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Jogging
- Sports
- Pilates
- Aerobics
- Stretching
There are several options for you to navigate your mind and body. Do not push yourself past your limit or expect immediate or specific results. Instead, try to remain in the present with yourself and the mental health goals you would like to reach through exercise. There are all sorts of physiological and psychological correlations between movement and exercise.
For instance, Frontiers In Public Health also states a direct link between decreased depression and increased cardiovascular activity. Your overall mental health is bound to increase when you find the most practical exercise regimen.
Exercise Is Readily Accessible to You
Like anything else, exercise discipline is also a business that gurus and lifestyle coaches may try to capitalize on. Please remember that exercise is readily available to you and always accessible. You do not need intricate equipment to get the most out of a workout. A walk, a jog, or a cycle engages core muscles and releases hormones that benefit your mental health.
You Don’t Have to Commit to One Method of Exercise
If you can find a form of exercise that you are comfortable with, that’s great, but you also do not need to box yourself in. It is a good idea to experiment with what methods feel genuine and natural to your body, feel free to change them up.
You may find that different forms of exercise positively affect your mindfulness and overall outlook. You may enjoy yoga on Tuesdays for relaxation after work. You may also enjoy jogging on the weekends.
Your body and your mind will enjoy variety. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself and try something new.
Try Not to Compare Yourself to Others
Exercise is a market saturated with prototypes of societal beauty standards. Avoid individuals who promote bodily images that may be a potential trigger for you. You are a unique individual with specific needs.
Your body has its own specific needs. It may not be easy at first, but try to listen to it, your body, that is. Try to engage with how your mind feels post-workout; you may feel great, accomplished, and proud of yourself. Even if you don’t feel this way initially, that is fine too.
Your mental health and the journey within is a process in its entirety. With time, you will feel the physiological benefits of exercise and find that your wellness and recovery will be positively impacted by the time you have invested in yourself.
Getting Started
Talk with your healthcare provider about healthy options that will work for you to get started. For additional motivation and accountability, reach out to a friend, family member, or peer from the recovery who regularly participates in specific exercises with you.
Southern California Sunrise Recovery Center understands the relationship between the mind, body, and soul and that exercise can be the root of it. Our mission is to ensure that your wellness and recovery are as accessible and approachable as possible. Our facility and staff know that recovery is not a destination but a journey, and different approaches work for other people.
When entrusting your care with us, you can expect to be treated as the unique individual you are, with particular attention to detail as your concerns pertain to you, your health, and overall wellness. You do not have to feel shame if you need help. You can conform to your lifestyle and implement the necessary changes to improve your quality of life.
If you or a loved one needs help, get help today. For more information, call us at 714-942-4143.
