Exercising: What Helps For Mental Health?
Mental health in youths has undoubtedly been a prevalent issue especially in Singapore, where 1 in 3 youths report internalising poor mental health symptoms such as sadness, anxiety and loneliness. Exercise helps to alleviate such symptoms, lifting mood and helping one destress. However, what types of exercise are the best in tackling poor mental health?
1. Team Sports
Research has found that out of all kinds of exercise, team sports have proven to be the most beneficial in improving symptoms of anxiety and depression. These include sports like basketball, volleyball, netball, football, etcetera. Not only do you exercise, you are able to forge friendships and build bonds through the sport, which also helps to keep your mental health in check.
2. Cardiovascular exercise
This type of exercise includes running, cycling, brisk walking, swimming or even boxing! It not only improves the flow of oxygen to your brain, but also has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety. It also improves your mindfulness, and allows you to focus on your thoughts to calm or slow down.
3. Yoga
Light yoga is a balance and flexibility type exercise, and has many proven benefits of allowing one to slow down and practice mindfulness, in turn reducing stress, anxiety, and insomnia. It is also possible to do this exercise before bed, unlike the intensive cardiovascular type exercises.
4. Strength training
This type of exercise will improve bone strength, boost metabolism and strength levels. For a student, this is essential for growth as well as to keep healthy - physically and mentally. However, be mindful to seek professional training and not injure yourself when purely doing weight-lifting!
While there are many kinds of exercise one can engage in to alleviate mental health and boost your mood, it is crucial to know your own body and preferences. Find an exercise routine that works for you, and take it slow especially when starting out. Over time, you will start seeing results after exercising sufficiently and regularly!
Resources:
https://genesight.com/blog/patient/the-best-types-of-exercise-for-mental-health/
https://www.therxreview.com/what-type-of-exercise-is-best-for-students/
By: Shana Lam