Exercise is one of the most effective prevention and treatment strategies for depression and grief.
Exercise has been shown to effectively relieve depressive symptoms. One study found that 30-minute aerobic workouts done three to five times a week cut depressive symptoms by 50 percent in young adults.
My personal exercise routine is pretty rigorous; but I like it that way.
One of my favorite things to do is pop in my earbuds, blast some Beyoncé and run for miles and miles until my legs practically give out. I love the feeling running gives me. My heart races, but in the best way. I feel hyper-focused, but on myself and my goals.
For an hour or so, all that matters is the speed at which my feet hit the pavement and Queen Bey’s beautiful lyrics. For a brief time, I sweat out all of the worries in the world. It’s transformative and enlightening.
Exercise has emotional benefits that go beyond improved self-esteem. All that alone time on the road, on the dance floor, or in the pool gives a person time to reflect. Emotions get sorted, feelings get compartmentalized and decisions get made. Exercise can be an important coping tool to deal with grief and loss, and has many positive affects beyond that. But, exercise comes in all shapes and sizes just like people.
There are endless possibilities, and you can find the one best suited to you and your lifestyle.
