Get Moving To Beat Depression!
Here are some hard facts surrounding depression…
- According to BeyondBlue, 1 in 7 Australians will experience depression in their lifetime, and 1 in 16 are experiencing depression right now!
- Depression is more than someone simply feeling sad or low
- Depression is a mental health condition that also impacts our physical health
Leanne and Fitness Tips Say!
Research tells us that partaking in regular physical activity improves wellbeing and may even be effective in warding off depression. Moving the body and raising the heart rate releases endorphins, our ‘feel-good’ hormones, which in turn improve brain function and make you feel better.
Depression affects many areas of someone’s life. It can lead to disturbed sleep, reduced energy levels, loss of appetite, and even body aches. These ailments related to depression can result in a lack of motivation, however doing some form of physical movement every day will help with all of these side effects.
What can you do? Why not start with some light walking with a friend for at least 30 minutes, 3 times a week? Start simple and gradually increase your activity levels to improve your self-confidence and build your fitness level to more moderate levels of exercising. Find something that you enjoy. Take up a dance class, swimming, or yoga. Exercising with a friend when you are feeling depressed is a great way to start and keep motivated to continue!
WHAT WE EAT MATTERS!
Research supports the link between what we eat and our risk of depression. A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, fish, olive oil, and antioxidants is associated with a decreased risk of depression. A diet high in processed foods, pasta, bread, high-fat dairy products, and sweets is associated with a greater risk of depression. Of course, when someone is feeling depressed it is easy to head straight to the comfort foods!
What can you do? Cut out alcohol, cigarettes, and hidden sugars…these are everywhere! Some of the biggest culprits are processed cereals, sports drinks, sauces, and spreads. Reach for the healthy salad and fish. Nourish your body, and in turn your mind with quality produce and plenty of water.
KEEP GOING! YOU’VE GOT THIS!!!
