Healthy body = healthy mind

“If exercise were a pill, it would be one of the most cost-effective drugs ever invented,” says Health Promotion Consultant Dr Nick Cavill.

Whatever your age, there’s strong scientific evidence linking physical activity with a healthier and happier life.  Being active is one of the best things you can do to help yourself bounce back in difficult times. Getting out of your head and into your body can actually improve your ability to think more clearly, break up your racing thoughts and help you focus your mind.

Sometimes the thought of hauling yourself out of bed to jump around seems exhausting! But it doesn’t have to be first thing in the morning, work around finding a time that suits you best. Just remember to start slow. You can always stop if you’re not feeling up to it, but all it takes is a few minutes of low-intensity exercise – even just walking can do the trick!

There’s this misconception that you haven’t done a good workout if it’s not super intense and you’re not left dripping in sweat. It’s just not the case at all! You can still get that great post workout feeling, and the benefits from low intensity workouts like moderate Tai Chi, yoga or even swimming.

Research shows physical activity can also boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing the risk of stress and depression. In fact, the more stressed out you feel, the more you need to look after yourself – and a workout can be the happiest medicine. So get active this summer and discover new ways of keeping your mind and body healthy.

Why not check out some short guided meditation videos on the Health and Wellbeing support page on AskHUE.

Alternatively, find top tips on easy ways to move more on the NHS website.