Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Bundle (312 pages)

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Few things are as all round positive for our health as physical activity. Not only is it incredibly beneficial for our physical health, but it is also plays an important role in anxiety management.

HOW CAN EXERCISE HELP MY DEPRESSION?

Research has found that regular exercise can help ease symptoms of depression by releasing feel-good endorphins and other natural brain chemicals that can enhance your sense of well-being. Exercise appears to help with depression regardless of the causes or triggers of the depressive symptoms.

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DO I NEED TO DO?

To improve physical and mental health, the World Health Organization recommends adults should exercise at least 30 min per day, 5 days per week to achieve health benefits. There is some evidence that higher intensity exercise is more effective than lower intensity exercise, but it can also be harder to stick with, so the most important thing is that you exercise in a way that you find enjoyable and that can be maintained over time.

HOW TO GET STARTED

By making the decision to exercise more, you’ve already taken a big step towards your health and wellbeing. Decide what activity interests you most (perhaps walking, weight lifting or a dance class), then take the steps required to get started. Action often needs to come before motivation – once you start moving it will be easier to continue.

Need a boost to get started? Perhaps make a walking date with a friend or sign up to a class for some accountability to help get the momentum going.