Depression and Exercise:
How the Body Fights Depression Naturally
You body manufactures chemicals to keep depression away.
Learn about the correlation between depression and exercise.
Depression and exercise have been linked since the discovery of the runner's high, the euphoric state of well being experienced by people who run regularly.
Endorphins are peptides produced by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus. The natural biochemical make up resembles opiates, and when released into the system act as pain killers, complete with the euphoric state of well being.
Strenuous exercise will push you past the threshold of pain, such as in a long workout at the gym or running to the point where you "feel the burn."
At this point, the bodies natural endorphins kick in and you will get a burst of adrenalin energy as well as a euphoric feeling. This release of endorphins and subsequent feeling is what is known as "the runner's high."
No wonder depression and exercise are linked.
You don't have to take it that far, if you don't want to.
Regular exercise, even light exercise, often helps with depression because it helps you sleep better, have more energy during the day, and you will often just feel better about yourself for having worked out.
Depression and exercise means that you will be less likely to smoke and eat poorly, affecting your overall health.
So if you are experiencing depression, do a couple of runs around the block each day, or try to get some walking in everyday.
The more you combat your depression with exercise, the less likely you will be to have to take depression medication or seek counseling.
Dysthimia or functional depression symptoms can be alleviated through even light exercise, as functional depression symptoms typically include the inability to fall asleep and constant worry.
Another symptom is apathy, and you will hardly feel apathetic toward your life if you are exercising regularly.
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