Psychological Health

by Tia Dewick in Training

griffin fit | personal training | health

As you all may be aware, this day in age everyone is aware and encouraged to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. But psychological health is often forgotten about. Although physical activity has been proven to enhance psychological health, there are many parameters which can further lead to improved psychological health.

First of all, do you exercise alone or alongside peers? Research has shown that the social element of physical activity is just as important as the exercise itself. Whether you’re just going out for a stroll or heading to the gym for a workout, try and bring along a friend or family member. This will make the experience a lot more enjoyable! Many individuals will go from not exercising at all to trying to attend the gym 5 days a week. This often leads to tedium and dropout! You need to gradually build lifestyle changes to allow your brain to adjust to the change in routine.

Research has shown that even low intensity exercise such as a quick stroll can increase psychological well-being. Moderate intensity and volume significantly improves sleep patterns and quality of sleep. We all know that one person that gets really grumpy when they’re tired. Sleep is incredibly important for physical and mental health! Mental functioning can significantly reduce if you are sleep deprived.

Aside from physical activity, there are many daily activities that can promote psychological health. Do you see the glass half full or half empty? On your drive home from work try to think about 5 positive things that have happened that day, no matter how small they may be! Maybe you had a really nice lunch or you felt really confident in your new blouse. Many people will often see work as the enemy and just can’t wait for 5 o’clock to strike so that you can go home. Try and be as positive in the time you spend at work as you can. After all, the average person spends a THIRD of their adult life at work!