Okay…so we all know how exercise benefits our physical bodies.  We know that exercise is good for our lungs, heart, and our overall physical health.  There are plenty of studies and evidence what exercise can do for the physical body, but there are few studies that have been done to see what type of effects exercise has on the psychological.  How does exercise affect your anxiety disorders, depression, and other moods?

Most studies that have been performed on how exercise effects the psychological have been mostly done with aerobic exercising (cycling, running, etc.).  But recent studies have been more focused on how non-aerobic exercise (yoga, Pilates, weight training) can help you psychological functioning.

A new study has been determined by the National Institutes of Health, they state: “The majority of studies have found beneficial effects of exercise on psychosocial functioning.  Exercise can help reduce depression and anxiety, as well as give individuals an improved sense of well-being.” 1.  Although there have been few studies, it is amazing to think of all the benefits your body gets when you exercise, both physically and psychologically.

Exercise can be used as a step in the treatment for some depression and anxiety.  It is still to early to tell if exercise can help people who suffer with a more severe depression.  Always listen to your doctors when dealing with depression, all though exercise can help, do not think it trumps anything your doctor has prescribed to you.

But if you are feeling a little sad, if you are singing the blues, exercise can help to get you out of that crazy funk.  Just exercising 3 times a week can help you physically and psychologically, whether it is aerobic or non-aerobic.

1. Psychological Benefits of Exercise, S. Tziporah Cohen, BA and Alan M. Jacobson, M.D., The Health Professionals Guide to Diabetes and Exercise