By: Hailey Sullivan
There’s a misconception that physical and mental health are two separate things, requiring different needs and methods of care to achieve wellness. However, the two are actually closely linked. Physical activity has a considerable positive impact on mental health in various ways. This study notes that individuals who would regularly partake in physical activity had lower rates of morbidity, spent less time in hospitals, and had reduced the impact of various psychiatric disorders. Physical health was shown to be related to better moods and a better quality of life overall.
You can start caring for your overall well-being by changing bad habits and making gradual, positive changes. This article will discuss various ways to improve your physical health to achieve mental wellness:
Improve sitting posture
Correcting your posture may not always be an immediate concern for you, but doing so can make all the difference. These data points reveal that workers stay seated for roughly 42.7% of the workday. Given that many spend around a third of their day at work, it’s vital that you transition to a healthier working lifestyle, lest you worsen your physical condition. Ergonomic office chairs are one of the best investments for your posture, helping ease back, neck, and shoulder pains. Ergonomic chairs, such as those listed in this article, provide special lumbar support that adjusts and conforms to your body to give the right structure you need. Try finding a chair that keeps you comfortable and doesn’t put too much strain on your body or one that can evenly distribute your weight and align your spine to prevent pain later on.
Good posture can help minimize aches and pains, preventing the development of physical ailments and complications. Try to regularly check how you’re sitting and adjust yourself accordingly, or stand up and walk now and then to lessen your time spent sitting. Maintaining good posture through an active lifestyle can also boost endorphins, the hormone released by your body when doing pleasurable activities, which prevents strain. Keeping your body in its best state does the same for your mental health.
Ride a bike
Biking accomplishes all kinds of things at once—it’s an enjoyable way to get to where you need to go while improving your physical and mental health. It’s also an effective workout that doesn’t have to stress out your joints or body too much, and you have the added benefit of gaining strength and preventing health complications. A stronger body means less time in hospitals or feeling sick; without the emotional and financial burden of those things, your mental health can flourish.
Different kinds of cycling can also benefit your mind in different ways. Mountain biking can help improve your concentration and mindfulness when navigating tricky terrain, and road cycling can offer a smoother and more exciting ride that boosts your mood. Even if you’re just looking to get from point A to point B, your overall well-being can still benefit from this good exercise, especially when you’re outside or immersed in nature. This guide for finding the best bicycle notes that there are many types that can suit your needs. Aim to find a bike that can work across many terrains and is easy to maneuver. Keep it simple if you’re a beginner, and go for lightweight, durable options.
Get a massage
Massages are essential for relieving bodily pain that conditions or injuries can sometimes cause, but they can also provide healing for a stressed-out mind. Experiencing a physical ailment can dampen your quality of life and worsen your mood. Undergoing massage therapy can help you take your mind off of the anxiety as your body’s aches are alleviated. Even if you don’t have a physical condition, you can still benefit from stress relief as massages produce feelings of caring, comfort, and connection. Read our post for more ways massage therapy can improve your physical and mental well-being.
There are many ways to care for your physical health, and there’s no right or wrong way to go about it as long as you’re getting it done. Keeping a consistent exercise routine or changing habits to support your body’s needs can greatly help improve your mental health. You’ll feel much better, and it will show inside and out.
