Boosting your mood with physical activity

The physical benefits of being active are clear. But physical activity can also have a positive impact on our mental health and wellbeing.

Moving regularly can reduce stress, promote sleep and improve concentration. There’s also lots of evidence to suggest regular physical activity can help protect against mental ill health and other health illnesses and disease.

It can be challenging to start exercising if you haven't done it for a while or you are not feeling at your best, or where getting active may not be something you prioritise or feel like doing. But finding ways to move can contribute to improving how you feel, provide a break from negative thoughts, and promote general wellbeing.

Things to remember:

• Start small. Even a ten minute walk can make a big difference to your day.
• Begin where you feel comfortable. This could be a local park, the backyard, or even your living room.
• Make a plan, and put it in your diary or calendar. Including physical activity as part of your regular routine makes it easier to stick with it.
• Choose an activity that you have enjoyed before. This could be yoga, riding a bike, or going for a swim. Maybe a walk to the supermarket to buy food to cook a favourite meal, or walking around an art gallery or museum.
• Alternatively, why not try something new? You could sign up for a trial session, look on your local council website for free exercise programs, or join a local walking group. You may be making a first step towards a new hobby that brings you joy.
• Keep track of your activity. Writing down what you’ve done and how you felt afterwards can help you find connections between your movements and your feelings.
• Walking with others has benefits, reach out to someone you like spending time with to go for a walk. Not only does connecting with others also support your wellbeing, it can be easier to talk side by side with others rather than face to face. Not ready to connect with another human? Take your dog to the beach, or consider asking a friend or neighbour if you can borrow theirs – not only will you be moving more, but doing something for others can promote wellbeing.
• Reward yourself. You’ve done something awesome!

Remember, any movement is a positive thing, no matter how small it may be. You can start a new habit just by putting your walking shoes by the door!