Physical activity has a huge potential to enhance our well-being. Even a short burst of 10 minutes brisk walking increases our mental alertness, energy and positive mood. Participation in regular physical activity can increase our self-esteem and reduce stress and anxiety. It also plays a role in preventing mental health problems and improving the quality of life of people experiencing these.
Research shows that exercise influences the release and uptake of chemicals in our brains that make us feel good. Staying active can lift our mood, reduce stress, help people to deal with negative emotions and even help with anxiety and reduce the risk of depression and dementia.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends that people with mild to moderate depression take part in about three sessions of physical activity each week, lasting about 45 minutes to one hour, Approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year.