Physical and Mental Health go Hand in Hand
Physical and Mental Health are often thought as separate facets of health, when in reality they are interrelated. Poor mental health can lead to poor physical health, just as poor physical health can increase chances of poor mental health (Sharma 2006).
Mental Health Exercises
Exercising is not only for building big muscles. There are plenty of exercises you can do to improve cognitive function and boost your mood.
Meditation
Meditation provides a sense of tranquility, peace and balance that not only improve emotional well-being but overall health. It can be used to relax and manage stress by focusing attention on something calming. Meditation also teaches how to stay centered and maintain inner peace.
Yoga
Did you know that practicing yoga can actually change the structure of your brain? Yoga helps to improve cognitive skills such as memory and learning, while also strengthening parts of the brain associated with attention, thought, and language (Harvard 2021).
Hiking
There are countless benefits to spending time in nature, including improved mental health and a boosted mood. Being in the great outdoors reduces stress, calms anxiety, and can lead to a lower risk of depression – making it the perfect way to unwind and de-stress.
>50% of adults don't get enough physical exercise (CDC 2022)
Adults who don't meet the recommended amount of physical exercise per week are more likely to suffer from chronic illness as well as a plethora of other health problems. Low physical exercise can lead to mental health problems, which makes it important to exercise for an overall healthy well being. Check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more details.
Physical Health by the Numbers
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have provided the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans which outlines guidance for people to maintain or improve their health through physical activity.
150
minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity
75
minutes per week of vigorus-intensity aerobic activity
2
or more days a week of muscle strengthening exercises.
Physical Health Exercises
Many people believe going to the gym and lifting weights is the best form of physical exercise. In actuality, there are many ways someone can reach their physical fitness goals.
Sports
Sports are a great way to reach your physical activity goals without feeling like your exercising. They can help promote teamwork and competition, with many taking place outdoors helping you feel more connected to your environment.
Weightlifting
Lifting weights may seem daunting at first, but there's a reason it may be the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about physical exercise. It can improve neuromuscular connections and increase hypertrophy, while also increasing confidence.
Swimming
Swimming is one of the best aerobic exercises you can do. Its a total body exercise that improves coordination and has less joint impact than other forms of exercise. Its accessible to people of all ages and is great at building cardio and respiratory health.