World Mental Health Day is an international day for global mental health education, and this year’s theme is ‘Mental Health is a universal human right’. With this in mind, it’s important for us to start conversations about the different ways you can look after your mental health, as well as others.
Driving for positive change and sharing advice on how to look after our mental health is important and we aim to highlight the importance of movement and physical activity. This ties in with this year’s theme, as our philosophy also includes the message that physical activity is for all and everyone should have the opportunity to be active.
Daily movement is important for our bodies and mind. Not only are there hormonal benefits, in which serotonin and endorphins are increased causing better mood, but it can improve our sleep, concentration and self-esteem. These factors can all contribute to better mental health. If you sleep better and are able to concentrate more at school or work, then you will feel happier from day to day.
Confidence is important for looking after our minds because if you feel unable to do something or feel you’re set for failure then this will have a negative affect on mood and outlook. Physical activity can be a great confidence booster, especially when participating in social movements. Joining a club or group in which you move together and socialise whilst doing so can be a great step in building confidence and self-esteem. You can use our Find Your Active activity finder to find something near you; https://www.activeessex.org/activity-finder/ .
Mental health issues can feel overwhelming. It can often feel like your brain is overstimulated but getting outside and moving can distract you from these thoughts and bring your attention back to the present. Research has shown that moving outside is a natural anti-depressant and the wide range of movements to choose from makes this even easier. You can try outdoor yoga, gardening, walking, cycling, the list can go on and on!
Physical activity in a group or with family and friends can also be an opportunity to start important conversations or open up about any struggles. Being able to talk freely with no distractions is important because you can give this time your full attention. The Mental Health Foundation want to bring our attention back to these initial and important conversations that allow people to feel less stress about what is going on inside. Follow this link for more advice; https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/public-engagement/world-mental-health-day
This World Mental Health Day reach out to those close to you and start to think about how you can include movement into your daily routine to improve your mental health, it’s a great first step for looking after your body and mind.
