It’s easy to go into a hibernation mode in the winter, especially when the days are short and temps are close to or below zero degrees. But there are many reasons why it’s important to find fun and easy ways to move your body in the winter. Finding even just 10 minutes a day to move your body can boost your mood and improve your mental health.
How does exercise improve your mental health?
There are quite a few studies that show exercise is a cost-effective way to improve health – both physical and mental – and quality of life. Movement can improve your mood, reduce stress, improve depression and anxiety. This is because exercise helps increase serotonin, a neurological chemical that contributes towards happiness.
Fun and easy outdoor winter activities
With shorter and colder days, winter can be a difficult time for many people. But there are definite benefits to getting outside and being active. Getting out in the fresh air can help clear your lungs and give you more energy and improved mental focus.
Learning how to embrace the season can help you find more joy during the winter. Are there outdoor activities that you enjoy or have been wanting to try? Consider these fun and easy activities that the whole family will love:
- Explore a Park with Snowshoes
- Ice Skating or Hockey
- Cross Country or Downhill Skiing
- Go Sledding
- Build a Snowman or Fort
- Have a Snowball Fight
Check out the parks around where you live. Do you remember the last time you went sledding or built a snowman? These are fun and easy ways to get outside, get fresh air, and move your body. If the memories are happy, nostalgic childhood activities can increase dopamine, a hormone associated with happiness.
Easy indoor activities to move your body
Suppose you are still not set on outdoor activities. In that case, there are plenty of easy indoor activities that can get your heart pumping this winter. Exercise doesn’t have to be boring – it can be fun. Get creative with ways you can move your body. Turn on music and bust some moves while you’re cleaning the house or cooking. Check out these fun and easy indoor winter exercise ideas:
- Yoga or Light Stretching
- Walk Your Stairs
- Do Jumping Jacks
- Walk in Place During Commercials
- Set up an Obstacle Course
- Do a YouTube Guided Cardio Routine
- Turn on Music and Dance!
Whether you do something more low-key like yoga, or something more intense like jumping jacks or a cardio routine, you will feel the benefits of working out.
The importance of mental health care
While incorporating a regular exercise routine can help improve your mental health, it might not be enough. Since your mind and body are connected, it’s important to exercise both your mental and physical health. Exercising your mental health is another vital part of a healthy life. When you are stuck on specific thoughts or can’t overcome a barrier, it can be beneficial to talk to a professional to help you work through those blocks.
At Doctors Park Mental Health Center, we hold space and work alongside our clients. Through this space, our clients can express their authentic thoughts, feelings, and emotions on their path to healing. If you are ready to start your healing journey, book an appointment with us today. We’d love to help.