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Exercise

Exercise icon

What is it?

Wellbeing Tools
  • Exercise can boost wellbeing by releasing endorphins.
  • Enhances self-esteem & provides an outlet for emotions
  • Offers a screen break & better sleep, promoting mental clarity.
  • Can help you cope with academic & social pressures.

Here's more detail

Published: 26/10/23

Description

Young women exercising

Exercise can be helpful for maintaining and promoting your emotional wellbeing. Adolescence can bring with it a whirlwind of emotions, from academic stress to social pressures, and exercise offers a powerful way to cope with it all. When you engage in physical activity, whether it’s through sports, dancing or simply going for a run, you release endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that help you manage stress and boost your mood. This can leave you feeling more relaxed, confident and ready to take on the world.

But exercise is not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good both mentally and physically. Exercise can build your self-esteem as you achieve fitness goals, and it can provide an outlet for emotions, allowing you to release frustration or anxiety in a healthy way. Plus, exercise can be a fantastic way to take a break from screens and the pressures of the digital world, giving your mind a much-needed rest. Regular physical activity also can promote better sleep, allowing you to recharge and helping you face the challenges of life with a clearer mind.

  • Learn more

    Exercising can improve mental health by:

    • Helping to introduce a routine into your daily life
    • Getting you out of the house and connecting with other people
    • Improving your physical health and fitness
    • Providing the opportunity to learn new skills and work towards goals
    • Encouraging you to get into nature

    Research has shown that exercise can help us to:

    • Manage stress
    • Improve sleep
    • Improve mood
    • Boost self-confidence

    Regular exercise can prevent the development of mental health problems, help to ease symptoms of mental health problems such as stress and anxiety, and improve the quality of life of people experiencing mental health problems. Research has shown that exercise releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good. You can incorporate exercise into your routine as a part of everyday activities – such as cleaning, or walking to school or work – or by signing up for a physical activity – such as walking, running, cycling, dancing, or taking part in team sports.

    Click on the links below to learn more about exercise and mental health:

Some resources that may help:

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