Mental health issues are very common. In any given week, one in six people in England will report experiencing a common mental health problem such as anxiety or depression. But it’s been shown that getting physically active is not only good for our bodies, it’s good for our minds too.
Getting active doesn’t have to be a hassle. Doing little things every day to be more active can really lift your mood, as well as giving you more energy and making everyday activities feel easier. And every step you take is a step towards feeling great.
Building activity into your daily routine is a good idea and can make it easier to get active. For example, lunchtime is a good opportunity to fit in some activity. A brisk walk will help you unwind and feel ready to take on the rest of the day. Or if you’re working from home, you could do a quick 10-minute workout.
An active hobby, like gardening or DIY, can be great for your mind as well as your body. And doing some stretches while you’re watching TV helps too.
We often get more out of exercising when we do it with others. So how about getting your friends and family involved with activity challenges like seeing who can do the most steps in a day.
There’s no ‘right’ way to exercise – it’s about what’s right for you. Whether it’s running, yoga or simply dancing around your home, it’s more likely to make you smile if you enjoy it – and you’re more likely to stick at it too!
If it’s been a while since you exercised or you need a bit of help to get going, a good place to start is the NHS’s Better Health Get Active web page. This has advice, tips and suggestions that can help you get moving.
Let’s Move Lincolnshire is also here to help you get active in a way that works for you, visit the Let’s Move Lincolnshire website.
If you want to do more to look after your mental wellbeing, visit the Better Health – Every Mind Matters website. By answering 5 quick questions, you can get a free personalised action plan with practical tips to help you deal with stress and anxiety, boost your mood, sleep better and feel more in control.