April 7, 2015
One of the things that can help your brain relax is exercise. Back when I was battling clinical depression, I became aware of the benefits of working out. I would go into the gym feeling blue and by the time I was done with my workout I would struggle to understand why I was feeling so down before I went into the gym.
One of the benefits of a workout is that it helps to oxygenate your brain. Recent studies have shown that oxygen can improve circulation sending invigorating oxygen to your brain and all your muscles. Oxygen may help flush toxins from the body as well. Exercise also stimulates the release of many chemicals that are believed to be in short supply when someone is battling depression. To that end, aerobic exercises appear to provide the best benefit when done for 20 to 30 minutes at least three times a week. An aerobic exercise could be as simple as walking fast. Numerous studies have shown that the intensity of the exercise is not as important as the act of moving fast for 20 to 30 minutes. In fact, even if you just spend time outdoors in the sun gardening, playing ball with your kids, or washing your car can be beneficial. When you spend time outdoors there is another added benefit. Studies have shown that sunshine can increase serotonin levels. Low serotonin levels are associated with seasonal affective disorder.
Another form of exercise that can help battle depression is Tai Chi. The art of Tai Chi involves a series of movements performed in a slow focused manner in combination with deep breathing. It is often described as performing meditation in motion. Meditation itself is beneficial because it can help break up repetitive negative thoughts.
As such, the next time you find yourself feeling blue, try to get moving. Improving your state of mind could be as simple as walking fast around the block. Your depression may not go away for good but a break from self-destructive thoughts can help you achieve a sense of peace and satisfaction that can last long enough to get you through another day.