This is my point of difference as a mental health specialist. Next to medication management, exercise is one of the first things I look at when assessing a consumer. Most of the time consumers who come to me struggling aren't doing any form of exercise.  

 

Exercise is is something that is often overlooked as having a significant impact on mental health and overall wellbeing. It's one of those things that don't seem significant or your somewhat aware of the importance but either aren't motivated to do it but I have seen some significant improvements in my consumers who reintroduce or begin exercising.

 

actually gives us energy! Think about how you feel after sitting around for hours, versus how you feel when you’re up moving around. You just feel better when you’re active.

You don’t have to spend countless hours at the gym to reap significant benefits from exercise.

 

You can start with something simple like a 20-minute walk if you’re just getting back to an exercise routine. Look at ways you can add more activity into your day – a short walk during lunch, another walk after work perhaps. Maybe two 10-minute walks each day would work better for you, than one 20-minute walk.

 

Having an activity tracker like a Fitbit or pedometer is a great way to see how active you are and get an idea of how many calories you burn during the day. It’s fun and motivating to see how many steps you take in a day.

 

Find a friend or coworker that has similar goals and figure out something you can do together to help keep each other accountable.

 

It doesn't matter if you prefer to workout at home, outdoors or in the gym. We have you covered with workouts for every setting and fitness level!! 

 

If you have taken a long break from exercising, don’t set yourself up for disappointment – have realistic expectations and be okay with feeling like a beginner again. It’s okay – just start where you are right now and build on it.

 

LET'S GET MOVING!!

 

Note: Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.