Physical activity which is practiced on a regular basis is a highly effective and completely natural solution for depression.
For some people, the arrival of winter does not revolve around just the cold weather, wearing layers and taking their coats and boots out of storage. For some people, the change in season also causes changes in mood – depression is not uncommon during winter and the changing of seasons. This is called S.A.D – Seasonal Affective Disorder – and is commonly referred to as “winter depression”.
Winter depression is actually a type of seasonal depression which is certainly not a phenomenon reserved only to the very cold countries. It can happen even in countries such as Israel, South Africa and Spain, where the climate is generally hot.
Winter depression and ordinary depression are different from each other in several ways: The main difference is the seasonal pattern. Unlike ordinary depression, which can start at any time and sometimes last for very long periods, winter depression appears always in the winter, fading towards the summer and come back again the following year.
Another difference is that while depression is usually characterized by difficulty in falling asleep, winter depression sufferers will actually have a desire to sleep a lot, more than usual and especially during the day. They will also have a general feeling of lack of energy and high irritability. There is also a great desire to eat, especially cravings for foods that contain sugars (“comfort foods”), unlike ordinary depression which is usually accompanied by a strong lack of appetite.
The main reason for winter depression is probably the lack of natural light, resulting from shortening daylight hours during the months of the winter season.
Physical activity has a proven antidepressant effect
In fact, studies indicate that regularly engaging in physical activity is an effective method for combating any type of depression.
Strength Training, such as when trying to get ripped, is especially effective in that sense and can improve or eliminate this condition completely.
Studies have shown that working out also improves self-image and self confidence and thus contributes to mental health.
It breaks the routine of the day, takes the person out of a lack of activity (basically, doing nothing) and makes him a perform and participate in a positive activity which is usually followed by a sense of accomplishment and overall good mood which in turn helps to relieve any feelings of depression, stress and anxiety.
Controlling the body, the result of the exercise and knowing what to aim for when training all contribute to the improvement of decision-making processes and promote the ability to think clearly and positively.
Exercise can also prolong and improve the quality of life. Leaving aside all other health factors of training for a second to look at it, we can see that the life expectancy of people who exercise regularly is longer than of those who do not engage in any physical activity.
Exercise has many physical as well as emotional benefits. It reduces stress, improve the endurance of the heart, lungs capacity and blood circulation as well as blood sugar levels. In addition, it strengthens the muscles, increases energy levels, improves feelings of depression conditions, lowers blood pressure and even boosts the immune system so that we can cope better with illness.
Physical activity can and should be considered as a preventive health measure at any age, and especially at an advanced age, when the body is more prone to disease.
Regular exercise has physical and psychological effects which go hand in hand. It can significantly improve the mood, alleviate feelings of depression and stress and increase your confidence.
Vigorous exercise stimulates the brain to release hormones called “endorphins”. These give a good feeling and can even eliminate pain sensations.
The brain begins to release endorphins approximately 15-20 minutes after the beginning of the physical practice and the process reaches its peak after about 45 minutes of training.
Repetitive movements, such as those used in walking, running and swimming, increase the production of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter which is of great importance to the brain and healthy brain activity.
There is however no need to run a marathon to enjoy the positive response and benefits. All you need is a regular training program to keep you active as part of your lifestyle.