Boosting Mental Health: Sarah and Rod's Exercise Insights
The strong message here is: exercise does help your mental health and sense of well-being, find an exercise that you enjoy and stick with it, because it can give you respite from the Daily rigours of life, where you feel you're not in control and you feel like you're drowning basically, and it can give you access to a whole new group of people you never would have thought you'd meet, and you learn new and different things from those encounters too.
Ever felt like the weight of the world is just too much to bear? Sarah and Rod from the mHarp podcast have some refreshing insights on how exercise can lighten that load. Sarah, a counselling team manager, shares how even a simple workout can be a sanctuary from daily stress, helping us feel more in control. Meanwhile, Rod recounts his recent cycling adventure, where he discovered new friendships, stunning landscapes, and the power of pushing past mental barriers.
They both agree that the benefits of exercise extend far beyond physical health. From releasing those feel-good endorphins to reducing anxiety and improving sleep, exercise is a powerful tool for mental well-being. But here’s the kicker: not everyone needs to hit the gym or run marathons. Sarah suggests exploring different activities like dancing or gardening until you find something that clicks for you.
Rod’s cycling journey highlights how exercise can also be a social connector and a source of new experiences. Of course, starting an exercise routine can be daunting, especially when mental health issues like depression or anxiety are in the mix. Sarah recommends setting small, achievable goals – even a short walk can make a difference. Rod adds that overcoming the mental hurdles of challenging exercises, like cycling up steep hills, brings a rewarding sense of accomplishment.
Their stories underscore a clear message: exercise can significantly boost your mental health and overall well-being. So, why not give it a shot? Dive into this episode of mHarp for more on how to make exercise a joyful part of your life.