5 of the Best Exercises for Mental Health

5 of the Best Exercises for Mental Health

Posted by Apex Foot Health on 24th Aug 2022

Studies have shown a clear link between fitness and mental health. So, if you're looking for ways to boost your mood and improve your overall health, a daily exercise routine can make all the difference.

But how do you know where to begin? A simple way to get started is learning about the best exercises for mental health that will easily fit into your daily routine.

Keep reading to learn about five fantastic exercises that will make your days brighter!

1. Walking

One of the best exercises you can do to boost your mental health is walking every day. Walking eases stress and helps with the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Remember, when you first start walking, break it up into small chunks throughout the day to fit into your schedule. You can also increase the intensity of your walks some days, and on other days take a gentle stroll.

Finally, make sure you have quality shoes that will support you along the way. You can check out this guide to learn easy tips for finding the perfect shoes!

Woman Walking Along Twisting Road

2. Yoga

The foundations of yoga are based on spirituality and meditation practices, so incorporating it into your daily life can do wonders for your mental health.

Yoga increases your body awareness, eases stress, and puts you in a more positive mood. Yoga also has plenty of physical benefits like reducing back pain, relieving arthritis symptoms, and improving heart health.

Start slowly by signing up for a beginners class and learn simple poses you can do at home.

Man Doing Yoga on Outdoor Patio

3. Swimming

Swimming is a great low-impact exercise that will give your mental health the boost it needs. Swimming helps promote positivity and an overall sense of happiness. Even just ten minutes of swimming a day can have positive effects.

You can start by swimming a few laps every day or consider taking up a water aerobics class.

If you'd rather go solo, try starting with a basic exercise by standing in water up to your shoulders while holding foam dumbells down by your side. Next, raise your arms until level with the water, and then lower your arms back to your sides. Start by doing 1 to 3 sets of 15 repetitions.

Woman Swimming in Pool

4. Resistance Training

Resistance training boosts your self-confidence, lowers your anxiety, and improves your cognition. You'll also feel better about the way you look and build muscle along the way.

You can start a gym routine by using free weights or weight machines. If you're unsure how to start, one session with a personal trainer can get your gym workout moving in the right direction.

Man Working Out With Free Weights

5. Dancing

A fun way to feel on top of the world and boost your overall mood is to dance to the beat of the music. Dance is a fantastic way to get into a rhythm and lose yourself for a while.

You can try many different dances, whether it's ballet, Latin American dancing, or hip hop. Don't be afraid to experiment and sign up for a few classes or find some time to dance with your friends.

Dance Coach Teaching Class of Six

Try New Exercises for Mental Health Today

Now that you know some of the best exercises for mental health, you can start a fitness routine today.

To ensure your feet are prepared, turn to Apex to find the best shoes for your foot health. Apex footwear can help people with diabetes, plantar fasciitis, and bunions by offering breathable materials and shock-absorbent soles for the ultimate comfort.

Visit us today to learn more about Apex footwear and start shopping for a new pair of shoes!