Mental health and physical health are closely connected. Physical activity has many benefits to physical, social, and emotional health and has been recommended for health promotion and disease prevention, according to the National Institutes of Health. Research shows theat regular physical activity improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and negative mood and by improving self-esteem and cognitive function. Exercise has also been found to alleviate symptoms such as low self-esteem and social withdrawal.
From Brad Moore, MD, MPH, FACP, director of the GW Lifestyle Medicine Clinic, and the Resiliency & Well-being Center team. Learn more about the L
Resources
- Physical Activity
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- MFA: Lifestyle Medicine & Physical Activity
- Milken Institute GW School of Public Health offers a wide range of lifestyle, sport, and physical activity courses.
- Lerner Health and Wellness Center
- Equinox Sports Club Washington, D.C.
- Exercise & Natural Movement
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- Live-stream Studio and Gym Workouts
- Fitness Blender: Free exercise website
- Bob & Brad: Exercise and PT videos
- YogaTx: Yoga videos
- DeStress Mondays: This 13-week series designed to show users how they can use physical activity to stimulate positivity and improve their mental wellbeing.
Sources:
Sharma A, Madaan V, Petty FD. Exercise for mental health. Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry. 2006;8(2):106. doi: 10.4088/pcc.v08n0208a. PMID: 16862239; PMCID: PMC1470658.
Reed, Paul. Physical Activity Is Good for the Mind and the Body. Health and Well-Being Matter blog Health.gov.
Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Benefits of Physical Activity. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.