How To Beat Depression Through Regular Exercise

Depression is a very common ailment, especially during these stressful and sour economic times. Depression is often considered a mental health ailment, although the main culprits have not yet been determined by psychiatrists, and even brain surgeons or experts. However, there are actually a number of easy ways for beating the blues, and staying fit at the same time, and this includes regular exercise.

Below are a number of exercise routines to beat depression, and keep your body fit and trim.

Exercise Is Associated With Good Mental Health

In 18th century Scotland, doctors in mental hospitals were known to allow their patients to perform heavy farm chores, because they considered exercise as a good antidote for depression and other mental health ailments. Even scientists and physicians today agree that there's a link between exercise and mood changes. One health expert even contends that moderate exercise leads to lower blood pressure levels, and results in a positive mood too. For good mental health, one should exercise at least 30 minutes each day, by doing brisk walking, swimming, light weight lifting, bicycling and using a fitness rowing machine.

Exercise, & Relaxation Techniques Help Ease Stress

A number of studies have also indicated that those who regularly exercise are more flexible, and experience less stress and depression. To ease stress, there are also a number of relaxation techniques that help manage stress and sweep the blues away. One of the most basic stress relievers is deep breathing. By breathing slowly and deeply, you can turn off your stress reaction button, and turn on your body's natural relaxation responses. A quick walk to a secluded area in the park, or within the neighborhood can also do wonders for stressed-out individuals who spend long hours slumped to their office desks. And if you think your body aches and pains are a sign of aging, think again. They're either a result of inactivity, or too much work.

Walking Eases The Blues

Even the least fit among individuals will still be able to find time incorporating simple exercises, like walking, into their busy schedules. An organized daily or weekly walking exercise routine can do a lot to fight stress and depression, because it's basically free, and it also strengthens the heart and lungs, tones the muscles of the hips and legs, and increase flexibility too. Walk for at least thirty minutes at least three to four times a week. If you're busy at work, you can walk for 15 minutes during lunch or break time. You can also take stairs when going up the office, instead of the elevator.

Regular exercise is one of the best weapons in fighting depression and stress, because it helps improve blood circulation, strengthens the heart and lungs, and also enhances muscle tone in all the major areas of the body too. Regardless of whether you'd like to jog, swim, run, lift weights or use a treadmill or rowing machine, a daily exercise routine can help boost your spirits, and ease anxiety at the same time.