Exercise

[swannees]

Certainly has helped me even if on not so good days just putting one foot in front of the other helps. On better days I do much more exercise.

[TheSteve]

Thanks Swannees. Great post. For all of those who have considered exercise as part of their coping/recovery strategy, I suggest: http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/exercise-depression

Yes, it is real. I also suggest: http://www.laughteronlineuniversity.com/laughter-scares-depression-anxiety-boosts-moodstates/

Two components that are critical to any recovery program. Good luck to all.

Steve

[Starwolf]

Hi Swannees and welcome back. Sorry to read you have been suffering depression for so long.

I'm one of the oldies on board. I agree that exercise helps us focus on the here and now instead of our inner turmoil. There are of course physical health benefits too. And yes, sometimes getting motivated is quite a challenge, so well done for persisting. I live in remote bushland, in primitive conditions, on my own but with a pack of rescue/rehab dogs so exercise takes care of itself...no need to go to the gym ! Have you checked the Walking Shoes thread on the Community Board ?

Your other thread says you need help but your posts don't say much about you or what your present situation is. What made you decide to rejoin BB ? The fact that you did shows that it must have helped you in some ways in the  past. Perhaps a few things have changed so navigating the forums may offer a bit of interesting cyber exploration.

I hope you will choose to post again so that we can make better acquaintance. Meanwhile, great to have you back. Take care.

[Zeal]

Hi Swannee,

It's great that you're doing exercise, even on days when you're struggling. Many people who struggle with mental illness shy away from exercise and retreat into their home. When I'm feeling anxious, I end up being fidgety and restless while at my desk or in my own home, as opposed to venturing out and going for a walk, which is a habit I know I need to break. When I have gone on a walk in the sunshine when I'm feeling overwhelmed, I usually come back feeling at least a little better. I have made a mental note to remember this for future times when I need a mental break, but still don't do it as a regular practice. My younger sister, who has never been diagnosed with a mental health condition, takes long power-walks when she is frustrated by study, for example. It seems to work for her. She is generally a very driven person too.

Thanks for the website suggestions Steve. I will take a look at those 🙂

It's great that you have a consistent and reliable way to exercise Starwolf! I can imagine those dogs must be quite active and need plenty of physical exertion in order to be well-behaved!

Thanks for the great thread Swannee,

Best wishes,

SM

[150lashes]

Hi there

Are there types of exercises that work better than others? Ie Cardio, weight training?

I'm thinking of seeing a PT but really not sure what is best. I've lost a lot of weight with having anxiety and need to rebuilt my strength. I'm eating again so hopefully energy won't be a problem.

Thank you

[Chris_m]

thanks swanne's i do my 1000 step i have fitbit charge hr love it i suffer from anxiety and major depression thanks great post have great weekend

[Chris_m]

150lashes try good walking for 30 min get heart rate up to burn more step up each week

hope have a good week