Exercise must be part of routine

If you are an avid exerciser, you are probably familiar with the endorphin rush you experience after a workout.

From improving memory and sleep to distracting from negative thoughts, exercise provides a wide range of mental health benefits, many which can be extremely useful during this time of crisis.

According to Nudge psychologist Justin Harrison, as little as 120 minutes of physical activity per week could help prevent depression.

“We need to think of our mind and body as the same thing, if the body is doing nothing it becomes depressed,” Dr Harrison said.

“It is important you find a way to integrate exercise into your weekly routine because when we raise our heart rate, we lift our mood and that is so important during this pandemic.”

Dr Harrison explained that there is such a thing as over relaxing.

“Not only does exercise help with sleep, but it offers a range of positive benefits for our mental health and keeps our minds clear and focused during the pandemic,” he said.

“Exercise gives us a chance to stretch, get some fresh air and take a break from everything.”

His top exercise tip is to take it regularly, not seriously.

“Set yourself a routine and when the time comes, whether you feel like it or not, do some exercise,” Dr Harrison said.

“Do something you enjoy, whether it be walking outside or an at-home workout and you will see just how much it benefits your mood.”