Blueprint for Happiness: Link Between Moving Your Body and Mental Health

You could love it – or it could be what you dread most in your day. But once it’s over, you feel great and grateful you put in the work.

Any idea what we’re talking about? 

Exercising! 

It’s no secret that physical activity improves your physical health, but it also impacts your mental health. Exercise increases brain chemicals, like endorphins, that make you feel happy. At the same time, it decreases levels of the body’s stress hormones, like adrenaline and cortisol. So – more of the good, less of the bad! Studies have shown that moving your body is beneficial for improving symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says adults should get 150 minutes of exercise each week. Sounds like a lot, but when you break it down, that equals about 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. 

Workout tips:

• Start small: Exercising can mean a daily stroll, lifting weights, yoga, swimming – the list goes on and on. Find a workout routine you’re comfortable with so it becomes something you look forward to rather than viewing as an obligation. 
• Bring friends: Your friends will keep you entertained and hold you accountable. Plus, some studies suggest that group workouts can reduce stress levels even more significantly than exercising alone. 
• Fun in the sun: Moving your workout outdoors can maximize your serotonin boost. Sunlight increases the brain’s release of the chemical serotonin which is a known mood-booster. But – during summertime in Arizona, best to keep the workouts inside. 

At Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, we want to provide a Blueprint for Happiness, because happiness is part of your health. Happiness leads to healthier behaviors like being active and eating nutritious food. Check out our social media channels and blog on the first Friday of every month for tips on sparking more joy and happiness in your life! 😊