There is a significant research on the physical health benefits of activity. The list of benefits is substantial and growing as biological and other evidence confirms what was already known: physical activity improves health: mental and physical. Here are just a few of the physical health benefits of activity (The World Health Organization):
- Reductions in
- Hypertension
- Coronary heart disease
- Cancer (Breast, lung, colon, and more)
- Stroke
- Risk of falling down and injuring self
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Improvements in
- Bone density (Center for Disease Control)
- Stronger immune system
- Muscular strength and flexibility
- Life expectancy
These may sound like purely physical health factors. However, ask any person who has serious physical issues if it impacts their mental health and happiness. Cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and other sickness or weakness do influence the way people feel. Reducing these problems and risk factors will improve overall mental health and happiness.
The mental health influences from physical activity are also marked. These include but are not limited to (Robinson, Segal, Smith):
Reductions in Mental Health Symptoms
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Symptoms of ADD and PTSD
- Negative emotions and feelings
Improvements in
- Self confidence
- Sharper memory and thinking
- Overall mental health functioning
- Happiness
- Sleep
- Body Image
From a body chemistry standpoint the chemicals that are released while physically active increase happiness, combat anxiety, stress and depression, and improve overall mental health functioning are:
- Dopamine
- Serotonin
- Norepinaphrine
- Endorphins
- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), encourages long-term brain and mental health growth (Cathe Friedrich)
Happier people tend to be more physically active, and more physically active people tend to be happier. “The Harvard researchers seem to have identified a synergistic feedback loop between psychological well-being and physical activity that may be bidirectional. But the million-dollar “chicken or the egg” question remains: Does being physically active make someone more likely to self-report higher positive emotions or does having positive emotions make someone more likely to exercise?” (Chris Bergland).
It doesn’t really matter which came first happiness or physical activity, it is apparent: There is a connection between physical activity and happiness. Biological, psychological, emotional, spiritual, it doesn’t matter what the cause is, the result is more happiness.
***STOP READING RIGHT NOW***
- 10 jumping jacks
- An accessible yoga pose
- Burpees
- 5-10 push up
- Sit ups
- Stretch out
- Go run around the building you are in
- Whatever you like that is physically active (I am going to chop wood for a bit)
How is your energy level? Ability to concentrate? Happiness? Stress? Tension? Wherever you are at this exact moment get up and DO SOMETHING!
You back? How do you feel? Any change? Along with feeling masculine for chopping wood, I feel energized, calm, and grateful. Ten minutes of physical activity improved my immediate mental health, allowing me to get back to writing this article. Extended exhaaaaale.
Components and Related Concepts
- Nature. Often physical activity can occur in nature, exponentially improving the benefits for some people.
- Social connections. Many physical activities can involve doing them with another person, walking, exercising, many activities can be done and will be enhanced when done with a friend. Going to a yoga class, skiing with a friend, hiking, going to the gym is a great way to build deeper connections with people. Teammates report deep social connectedness with other people that promotes positive relationships and emotions (Paige Malsen).
- Improvements in body chemistry. The chemicals released during physical activity improve mental health functioning and brain chemistry.
- Goal Setting. An excellent way to improve performance, ability, and overall feelings.
- Exercise. A form of physical activity that is more intentional and direct.
- Sexual health and satisfaction. There is evidence to support that people who are more physically active and fit have improved sex lives. Double bonus.
References and Resources
- Bumgardner: What is Physical Inactivity?
- Caspersen, Powell, Christenson: Physical activity, exercise, and physical fitness: definitions and distinctions for health-related research.
- Plato: Quote Garden: Inspirational Quotes on Exercise
- John Wickham: Inspirational Quotes on Physical Activity
- Lailah Gifty Akita: Physical Activity Quotes
- Anthony Ashley Cooper, 1st earl of Shaftesbury: Physical Activity Quotes
- Center for Disease Control: Physical Activity and Health
- Chris Bergland: Harvard Study Reports: Happier Adults May Exercise More
- Cathe Friedrich: 5 Brain-Boosting Chemicals Released During Exercise
- Robinson, Segal, Smith: The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise
- Paige Maslen: The Social and Academic Benefits of Team Sports
- Drew Mikita: Mental Workout: The Two Qs of Goal Setting
- Drew Mikita: Positive Psychology: Social Comparisons
- Gretchen Reynolds: Even a Little Exercise Makes us Happier
- Ethan Boldt: 20 Exercises to Do at Your Desk — Get Fit at Work?!
- The World Health Organization: Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Heal