What if you could kickstart your body into full recovery mode, both physically and mentally? Exercise does just that, boosting the body’s natural healing response and improving overall mental health. But what sets exercise apart from other forms of physical activity? And how does it specifically benefit those in recovery?
In this guide, we’ll explore the impact of exercise on mental health. From what exercises are the best to the science behind the benefits, we’ll break down how exercise can play a crucial role in improving mental health during addiction recovery and how to get the most of your workout routine.
The Link Between Exercise and Mental Health
Physical activity effect on mental health has been well-studied, including in people in active addiction recovery. Of the many benefits of physical exercise, perhaps none is more critical than its role in anxiety and depression.
Impact of Exercise on Mental Health Depression and Anxiety
Studies have shown that people who partake in physical exercise have improved rates of depression and anxiety compared to those who do not exercise. These effects are so strong, they are compared to being as beneficial as medication.
While we cannot be 100% sure how exercises effect on mental health works, there are a few theories that have been suggested by researchers. One theory is that exercise increases the release of endorphins in the brain, which are natural mood boosters and can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and prompt relaxation.
Another theory suggests that exercise promotes the growth of new brain cells, particularly in areas associated with memory and learning, which may also contribute to improved mental well-being. This is known as neuroplasticity, and is vital in addiction recovery.
Improved Self-Regulation
Behavioral changes are also essential when dealing with mental health. When one can change their behaviors to be more positive, such as learning to use coping skills instead of turning to substances, they can improve their chances of sustained sobriety.
Exercise has been shown to help improve what is known as self-regulatory control. This includes elements such as:
- Planning
- Goal-shielding
- Impulse control
These elements are crucial in maintaining a healthy mindset and making positive choices. For those who want to gain more self-control and take hold of their addiction, the impact of exercise on mental health cannot be understated.
Improved Severe Mental Illness Symptoms
Psychosis is often a hallmark of serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, which are themselves often linked to substance use disorder. In fact, nearly half of people who have a serious psychiatric illness, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, also have a co-occurring substance use disorder.
While these illnesses can be difficult to treat, there is growing research that suggests moderately intense exercise can improve positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, cognition, and functioning. How do these effects of physical activity on mental health work? Research shows that exercise might impact areas of the brain responsible for psychosis.
The Best Exercises to Improve Mental Health
While any physical activity can benefit mental health, certain types of exercise can play a crucial role in helping people recover from addiction. These include the following.
Aerobic Exercise
People who engage in aerobic exercise are less likely to use illicit drugs. Aerobic exercise has also been shown to improve mental health, more so than leisurely exercise. But what is aerobic exercise?
Aerobic exercise, also known as cardiovascular exercise, is any type of physical activity that increases heart rate and causes an increase in oxygen consumption by the body. This can include activities such as:
- Running
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Dancing
- Exercise classes
Even as little as 20 minutes per day of aerobic exercise can make a big difference in mental health. If you’re crunched on time, consider incorporating aerobic exercises into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a brisk walk during your lunch break. These small changes can add up and have a positive impact on both physical and mental well-being.
Yoga
Yoga has been shown to have a positive effect on chronic illnesses, including addiction. Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. It has been found to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase self-awareness, especially since it incorporates a wide range of mindfulness practices. In addition to its mental health benefits, yoga can also improve physical strength, flexibility, and balance.
Incorporating yoga into your daily routine can be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to do some basic poses and breathing exercises. It can also be done in a class setting, where you can learn from an experienced instructor and practice with others. Many gyms, community centers, and yoga studios offer classes for all levels of experience.
Find the Right Exercise Plan for Addiction Recovery Today
Whether you want to improve your mental and physical well-being or are looking for a holistic approach to addiction recovery, incorporating exercise into your daily routine can be incredibly beneficial. At Atlanta Recovery Place, our team is ready to help you create a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals. We utilize treatments like yoga, exercise and gym options, mindfulness exercises, and more to help you achieve long-lasting health and sobriety. Call us today if you’re looking for top-tier outpatient treatment in Atlanta, and get started on your recovery journey now.
