The Push-Up Challenge’s Post

When we move, our bodies release a myriad of ‘feel-good’ chemicals which play a role in reducing stress, anxiety and the risk of depression. Learn more about how exercise can benefit our mental health: https://lnkd.in/eeVFv_vm #MHAW #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek #HealthAndWellbeing #EmployeeHealth #OccupationalHealth #MentalHealth #HealthyWorkplaces #WorkplaceHealth

I don't hear enough doctors asking, especially mental health providers/prescribers to patients. "....and your physical fitness routine, tell me about your exercise history. Tell me about your current exercise regiment, your weekly exercise routine, and your daily nutrition habits". Very overlooked questions. Part of a mental health recovery process is improving physical health. Many people suffering from mental health issues, have physical health complaints. They don't physically feel well. They have a comorbidity of mental health and physical health decline. The correlation of effective mental health functioning and routine exercise/nutrition is not pseudoscience. Depression DSM V: 1. Weight loss or gain 2. Psychomotor retardation 3. Insomnia Serotonin regulation through physical motivation. The motion is the lotion. Food impacts mood.

Did you know that inflammation in your guts and an unhealthy microbiome is also affecting your mental health? Gut issues contribute to brain fog, lack of focus, mood swings and mental health diagnoses including anxiety and depression. Here's the science: Your gut and brain maintain constant communication through a complex network of nerves, hormones, and biochemical signalling. The Vagus Nerve is the main information highway between the guts and the brain and 80% of the information it carries is FROM the guts TO the brain, so if the information comes from a congested, inflamed gut, the signal is one of distress. In short, the state of your gut directly influences your cognitive functioning - your creativity, your decision-making, your clarity of mind and ultimately, your mental and emotional wellbeing. So how can you nurture your guts - and your mitochondria - for a healthier mind? A simple way to begin is to cut out junk & processed foods, opt for a variety of colourful fruits and veggies and stay hydrated! In what ways do you already support your gut health?

Gut Feelings: How Your Microbiota Influence Mental Health Jeya Chelliah B.Vsc Ph.D. The human gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota. Over the past decade, research has increasingly illuminated the significant role these microorganisms play in various aspects of health, including mental well-being. This burgeoning field, known as the gut-brain axis, has revealed that the microbiota can influence mood, behavior, and cognitive function through a complex interplay of biological mechanisms. https://lnkd.in/exFdS7BN

Mental Health Benefits from Exercise Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Exercise reduces levels of stress hormones like cortisol while stimulating the production of endorphins, which promote a sense of well-being. Regular physical activity can help reduce symptoms of anxiety. Improves Mood and Mental Health: Exercise is an effective tool for reducing symptoms of depression, often as effective as medication for some individuals. Physical activity stimulates the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which enhance mood. Enhances Cognitive Function: Regular exercise has been shown to enhance brain function, improving memory and cognitive skills. Physical activity can reduce the risk of developing dementia and other cognitive impairments in later life. #menshealthweek

Regular exercise treats depression and anxiety, improves sleep and well-being, aids smoking cessation, and enhances cognition, even offering protection against cognitive decline and dementia. The challenge, of course, is developing a strategy to overcome the many barriers to regular exercise. I am very pleased to announce that our new and expanded Enhancing Treatment Benefits with Exercise (2nd edition, 2024) books are out. These books are designed for use by therapists (Therapist Guide) and for direct use by individuals (Client Workbook) needing a new approach to initiating and maintaining an exercise program to improve mood, anxiety, cognition, resilience, or habit control (smoking). In these books we provide the evidence for the efficacy of exercise, but devote primary attention to strategies for overcoming the motivational challenges and barriers to successfully adopting an exercise program for mental health. https://lnkd.in/eSyEMDFv

Smiling is indeed good for your health! Here are some reasons why: 1. _Reduces stress and anxiety_: Smiling can help calm your mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety. 2. _Boosts mood_: Smiling releases endorphins, also known as "feel-good" hormones, which can improve your mood and reduce symptoms of depression. 3. _Improves immune function_: Studies have shown that smiling can strengthen your immune system by increasing the production of antibodies. 4. _Lowers blood pressure_: Regular smiling has been linked to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease. 5. _Relaxes muscles_: Smiling can help relax your facial muscles, reducing tension and pain. 6. _Increases longevity_: Some studies suggest that smiling can increase your lifespan by reducing stress and promoting overall well-being. 7. _Improves relationships_: Smiling can help you connect with others, build stronger relationships, and improve communication. 8. _Reduces pain_: Smiling has been shown to reduce pain perception by releasing endorphins. 9. _Improves mental health_: Smiling can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, promoting better mental health. 10. _It's contagious!_ Smiling can spread happiness and positivity to those around you! So, keep smiling and reap the benefits for your physical and mental health!

Our thoughts, moods, and mental state may feel abstract or separate from the physical, but they are all happening as part of our brain activity. Progress takes time—take small steps toward your health goals and celebrate every victory, no matter how small. Impact of Mental Health on Healthy Behaviors: Exercise Struggles: Low energy and motivation make maintaining a regular exercise routine difficult. Sleep Disruption: Mental health issues can disrupt sleep, causing fatigue and reducing daytime activity levels. Eating Habits: Conditions like depression or eating disorders can lead to weight fluctuations and difficulty maintaining a balanced diet. Substance Abuse: Mental health disorders may be linked to substance abuse, negatively affecting overall physical health. To read the entire thread, click here: https://lnkd.in/gMdF-K3u Abhiyanta Shrestha

Prioritize Your Mental and Neurological Health Mental and neurological health are just as important as physical health. Yet, they are often neglected. Here are some tips to improve your mental and neurological health: Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps improve mood and reduce stress. Drink plenty of water: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and headaches. Eat a healthy diet: Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can improve your mood and cognitive function. Get enough sleep: When you're well-rested, you're better able to cope with stress and manage your emotions. Limit sugar intake: Too much sugar can lead to mood swings and energy crashes. Read books: Reading can help reduce stress and improve cognitive function. If you're struggling with your mental or neurological health, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A top US specialist can help you develop a treatment plan that's right for you. Find a mental health professional through NeuroX: Book your consultation today!