Lifting weights and doing regular cardio exercises can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression significantly

[ilovebenching]

Lifting weights can have a significant positive impact on mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Here's how:

• Endorphin Release:
  • Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, natural mood-boosting chemicals in the brain.
    
    
  • These "feel-good" hormones can alleviate feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Stress Reduction:
  • Weightlifting provides a healthy outlet for stress.
    
    
  • Focusing on the physical exertion of lifting can help to distract from worries and anxieties.
    
    
  • Exercise can also help to reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
• Improved Sleep:
  • Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality.
    
    
  • Better sleep can significantly enhance mood, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental well-being.
• Increased Self-Esteem:
  • Achieving fitness goals, such as lifting heavier weights or increasing muscle mass, can boost self-esteem and confidence.
    
    
  • This can have a positive impact on overall mental health.
• Social Interaction:
  • Weightlifting can be a social activity.
    
    
  • Joining a gym or fitness class can provide opportunities for social interaction and support.
• Distraction:
  • Weightlifting can provide a welcome distraction from negative thoughts and rumination.
    
    
  • Focusing on the physical demands of the workout can help to take your mind off of worries and anxieties.
    
    

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_ZlOSONkuM

[Ru-bee]

Thanks for sharing @ilovebenching 

It sounds like this is something that you're passionate about, has exercise played a big role in your mental health journey? 

[Alisse]

Hi @ilovebenching 

Thanks for sharing this positive information on lifting!

You've clearly highlighted the many benefits of not just lifting, but exercise in general, for mental health and wellbeing.  

This video resource provides a great overview of how strength training can boost mental health, and I believe there's something in it that each of us can incorporate into our daily lives. 

I go to the gym three times a week and yoga practise twice, and this routine helps keep both my body and mind in good shape. 

Thankk you for promoting the benefits of lifting and exercise, your insights are both encouraging and motivating.

Happy Benching !

Kindly Alisse

[Appleblossom]

@ilovebenching @Alisse 

I only use hand weights but boy have they helped over the last 15 years. Helped body and mind.

 m getting old and lazy so economical with my effort. I do think short High Intensity bursts are worth it.

[Trickster]

I started with physio I wasn't able to walk without the use of cane because of a series of seizures so I started hip, lower back and leg physio in bed at night before sleep, it helped me get ambulatory again. Physio alone wasn't enough to help my shoulder so I started at gym, no bursitis and yes the feel good hormones are so good, I can run  for a bit, lift weights I could never my entire life and I'm fairly chunky so this was awesome never impacted my sleep issues but I'm a difficult case. I never thought I would love the gym.

[tyme]

Wow. Good on you @Trickster  🙂