Flourish Health & Wellbeing eMag - Latest Edition - Flipbook - Page 31
Not all movement has to look like “exercise”
One of the barriers to
movement is the word
exercise itself. For some
people, it brings up
memories of school
sport, gym intimidation,
weight loss pressure
or feeling judged. But
movement can be much
broader and more
enjoyable than that.
Physical activity can
include walking the dog,
gardening, dancing in
the kitchen, riding a bike,
playing with the kids,
stretching at home, taking
the stairs or doing a few
bodyweight exercises
during the day.
This is important because
the mental health bene昀椀ts
of movement do not only
come from structured
workouts. Everyday
activity can also help
improve mood, energy
and con昀椀dence.
lunchtime, stretching
before bed, or standing
up and moving every hour
during the workday.
Small steps are
still steps.
If you are starting from
very little movement,
the goal does not
need to be a
complete 昀椀tness
overhaul.
It might
simply be a
10-minute
walk at
Which types of exercise are best for mental health?
There is no single “best”
exercise for mental health,
because different people
respond to different
types of movement.
However, several forms
of exercise have strong
potential bene昀椀ts.
con昀椀dence, improve
posture and support
long-term health. For
some people, feeling
stronger physically
can also support a
stronger sense of
control and resilience.
Walking is one of the most
accessible options. It is low
cost, low impact and easy
to 昀椀t into the day. Walking
outdoors may provide
extra bene昀椀ts through
fresh air, sunlight and time
away from screens.
Group 昀椀tness or team
sport can provide social
connection, accountability
and a sense of belonging.
This can be particularly
valuable for people
who feel isolated
or disconnected.
Strength training can
help build physical
Yoga, Pilates and
mobility work can
support breath awareness,
body awareness, 昀氀exibility
and relaxation. These
forms of movement may
be especially helpful
for people who carry
stress physically through
tension, stiffness or
shallow breathing.
Aerobic exercise, such
as swimming, cycling,
dancing or jogging, can
support cardiovascular
health and may help
reduce symptoms of
depression and anxiety.
The best choice is usually
the one that feels realistic,
enjoyable and sustainable.
