We all have days when it is a little harder to encourage yourself to do something because you are feeling down. Whether it is work stress, lack of sleep, or even anxiety or depression – exercise can help! There are many benefits of exercising when you’re feeling down.

So what are the benefits of exercise for anxiety, depression or sad cases? Take a look at some of the tips provided by people who have been there and managed to get through tough times by taking advantage of the benefits of exercise.

Relieves Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression can be triggered by many things. Whether you are going through a period of stress or you have been diagnosed with depression or an anxiety disorder, there are times when you just do not know what to do for yourself to help relieve the emotions that can overwhelm your mind.

“One of the best ways to relieve anxiety and depression – at least temporarily – is to get outside and exercise,” says Tyler Read, Founder and Senior Editor of The Personal Trainer Pioneer. “You can go to the gym or even take a walk around your neighborhood to get some fresh air. The endorphins released during your cardio session can help relieve that overwhelming feeling and give you a break from the day you’ve been working on. Finding a friend who can join you can make the experience even better.”

Rest

Exercise is an amazing way to take a break from whatever is causing you unhappiness or anxiety. Get rid of anxiety and depression by exercising as a break. While it can be hard to encourage yourself to do this when you are feeling this way, exercising can help get you out of the fears you are stuck in and offer you a feeling of accomplishment.

“Use exercise as a form of ‘me time’ and incorporate that hour or so of rest into your day,” says Ryan Rottman, Co-Founder and CEO of OSDB. “Putting yourself first and getting away from environments that are causing you stress or anxiety can help you breathe and focus on something else for a while.”

Change of Scenery

Exercising does not must be done in the gym. Sometimes the last thing you want to do is go to a place where you’ll be surrounded by other people while dealing with this anxiety or depression. Instead, explore a new park, walk a trail, or take a walk around downtown.

“Exercise for depression or anxiety doesn’t have to be intense cardio,” says Lauren Kleinman, Co-founder of Edit Quality. “Many studies have shown that even walking for an hour can drastically reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Check your local area and find places you can explore and take your time to exercise.

Diversion from Stress

Sometimes distraction is the best medication for depression and anxiety. While it isn’t a drug, it can be an amazing way to get your mind off the subject that might be causing those feelings to intensify. Instead of scrolling through social media or watching your entertainment shows on streaming platforms, try using exercise as a way to focus your mind on something else for a bit.

“Sometimes anxiety and depression can take a toll on our thought processes to the point where they can’t function,” says Juan Pablo Cappello, Co-Founder and CEO of Nue Life. “But working out makes you focus on something else for a bit. Whether you are counting reps, following an instructor, charting a workout plan, or even taking a walk around the neighborhood, this workout plan will help you focus on something less stressful – at least for a short while. Sometimes just a break from thinking about that subject is all you need to give yourself a fresh perspective.

Promote Better Rest

Anxiety and depression are often exacerbated by sleep deprivation. However, you also often do not sleep well when you are anxious or depressed. Fight anxiety- and depression-induced insomnia by ensuring you are tired enough to fall asleep and stay asleep. Exercise is an amazing way to tire yourself out and promote a better night’s rest.

“It’s no surprise that exercise helps your body use the energy you have,” says Brandon Adcock, Co-Founder and CEO of Nugenix. “By exercising regularly, you can avoid waking up at night and losing sleep because of things that make you sad. That can help you reduce depression and anxiety the next day too because you are less tired from lack of sleep. It’s an amazing way to break that vicious circle.

Improved Brain Function

Did you know that exercise really helps improve brain function? Studies have shown that regular exercise can help you think more clearly, focus better and even energize you brain cell reproduction.

“When we take care of our bodies by exercising, we also improve the health of our brains,” says Natália Sadowski, Director of Aesthetics at Nourishing Biology. “Exercise and increased cardio can improve your ability to solve problems and deal with situations that may be causing you anxiety or making you feel down. Clearing your mind, getting blood flowing to your brain, and getting out of your funk can all make a big difference in how you feel.

Conclusion

Feeling down does not must ruin your day. Pull yourself out of your rut by finding ways to exercise and improve your mood. Exercising can help you relieve any anxiety or depression exemplified by your situation or the need for infrequent rest and rest.

Exercise is an amazing way to increase endorphins and help naturally drive away feelings of anxiety and depression. So if you are feeling down, try finding something active to do – walk, bike, jog, hike, or hit the gym to cool off and turn the day around.

Break the cycle of negative thoughts or worries in its tracks by changing up your routine and using exercise as a way to temporarily encourage and distract yourself while also taking advantage of other health benefits. After all, a healthy body helps your brain work better too!