If you’ve ever felt a little brighter after a workout, you’re not alone. Getting your body moving can really lift your spirits—and research suggests it can help ease the weight of anxiety and depression, too. When you move, it becomes easier to focus, pick up new habits, and work through whatever is on your mind while helping your mood feel steadier.
Physical activity helps your mental health in a few amazing ways:
- Happy Chemicals: Exercise releases endorphins—your brain’s natural “feel-good” chemicals—that help you feel more relaxed and positive.
- Brain Fuel: It increases blood flow to your brain, which helps you think more clearly and stay focused.
- Brain Growth: Movement helps your brain stay healthy by encouraging the growth of new cells, making it more resilient against stress.
Moving your body is a kind and natural way to help your mind feel better. If you’re feeling a bit unsure about where to start, you don’t have to do it alone. A health coach can be right there with you, offering the support and gentle guidance you need to take those first steps with confidence. While exercise should not replace medication or psychotherapy, it can be an effective option within the broader therapeutic landscape.
We spoke with Samantha Sikorski, TriWest Healthcare Alliance Health Coach about how she uses exercise with her patients to improve their mental health.