I’ve had an encouraging surge of new students in my classes as we’re entering the fall season in Ohio. While my Houston friends are hopeful the intense heat will end soon, Ohio friends are already murmuring about the 4-letter word (S N O W) that is inevitably around the corner.
In the north, you’ll also hear conversations about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression related to changes in seasons that usually begins in the fall and continues into the winter months.
Here’s the good news this autumn…
One thing that is known to help with depression is EXERCISE.
I’m not an expert on depression, but I’ve repeatedly read that exercise is thought to play a role in the treatment of depression symptoms. Finally, it was quantified last year in a large study by the Black Dog Institute in Randwick Australia! They monitored exercise levels and the correlation of depression in 33,908 Norwegian adults for more than 11 years, to determine whether exercise really provided protection against new-onset depression.
In fact, the study confirmed that 12% of depression cases could be eliminated if people engage in at least 1 hour of physical activity weekly!
YES, just an hour of exercise can help to prevent clinical depression!
“Most of the mental health benefits of exercise are realised within the first hour undertaken each week. With sedentary lifestyles becoming the norm worldwide, and rates of depression growing, these results are particularly pertinent as they highlight that even small lifestyle changes can reap significant mental health benefits,” said Associate Professor Harvey.
What does this mean for YOU, my friends?
Please find a fun fitness class to exercise at least one hour per week!
I LOVE teaching my Strength & Balance classes because we laugh and talk while we exercise to happy music. If you’re not in my local area, you’ll have to do some searching for classes in your area, but I encourage you to do so! It’s a great way to age gracefully!
I’ll place some videos on my website soon for the days my students and friends can’t get out of the house. But if you CAN, get out for a class because it allows for social time, as well as the increased activity!
So, tell me…
How often do YOU exercise?
Do you need to “recommit” to a class or routine?
How has exercise benefitted your life?
I had therapy twice a week for six weeks I continue more than that now but still feel depressed.
Unfortunately, it may stop depression from occurring, but may not be as helpful after onset. You’ve had a LOT of hard stuff to deal with!
I also participate in a yoga class 4 times a week.
I take a 15 minute walk twice a day. I’m now 81 and, so far, have not had a fall that injured me.
Thank goodness! Love you!