The Connection Between Movement and Mental Health

Carving out time for movement is a simple, in-the-moment strategy to shift gears when you’re feeling stuck.

One way to recharge your battery both long-term and in the moment is to make movement and exercise part of your day. It doesn’t have to be capital “E” exercise, and it doesn’t have to happen at the gym. Put simply, move your body! Sitting for prolonged periods of time can leave you feeling tired, foggy, and disengaged. A sedentary lifestyle has been linked to higher risk for developing mental health conditions over time. And regular movement fuels your brain in important ways: According to one study, those who get regular exercise see a 70 percent improvement in ability to make complex decisions over sedentary peers.

Here are five Microsteps to help you carve out time for movement during the day:

Lay out your workout clothes the night before.

This makes A.M. workouts easier. Plus, morning exercise can inspire you to stay active all day. 
 

Get off of public transportation one stop earlier to walk the rest of the way. 

Our brains release neurotransmitters while we walk that help us make better decisions and focus.

Schedule time to go outside.

Just a few minutes during the day can make a big difference. Simply being outdoors and surrounded by nature not only improves your well-being, but inspires you to be a more creative, more present version of yourself.

Every time you brush your teeth, do a few squats. 

Stacking a new habit on top of an existing one is a great way to add movement with no extra time. 

Schedule time on your calendar for exercise. 

You wouldn’t miss an important meeting or an appointment, so blocking movement time off in the same way can help shift your mindset.