We know exercise is important for our physical health. But are you aware of the positive effects it may have on your mental health? If you’ve ever gone for a run during a stressful time, chances are you’ve felt better afterward. While it may be hard to wake up early for that morning jog, the exercise-mental health connection is hard to ignore.

Exercise can seem intimidating, especially if it’s not already part of your routine. But there’s a lot to gain. Did you know that the benefits of regular exercise can include increased energy and stamina, weight reduction and overall improved fitness? While these are important benefits, there’s more. Exercise can play a positive role in your brain health.

How your brain benefits from regular exercise

Regular exercise can help boost mental health by

• releasing feel-good endorphins that are naturally produced by the body to relieve pain and cause a feeling of well-being
• taking your mind off worries by breaking the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression and anxiety and
• creating a positive coping strategy when stress levels rise.

And consider this: Immediately after moderate to vigorous exercise, adults can experience improved sleep and reduced short-term feelings of anxiety, and children can experience improved thinking.

There’s more than 1 way to exercise

While swimming, running and lifting weights are great ways to exercise, other physical activities like gardening, washing your car or walking around the neighborhood are good too. For most adults, at least 150 – 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity per week is recommended by public health guidelines. Sound daunting? Break it into 2 15-minute or even 3 10-minute exercise sessions daily.

Sources: cancer.gov, cdc.gov, health.gov, mayoclinic.org, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Do you feel you need more support with your mental health? Visit the Mental Health Resources page for free resources or the Amwell Telehealth page to learn about mental health therapy and psychiatry medication management services available for BCBS PPO Plan members.

Life. Inspired. content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for the professional opinion of a doctor, pharmacist or other health care professional involved in your treatment. We encourage you to consult with your doctor, pharmacist or other health care professional before beginning an exercise program and for diagnosis and treatment decisions.