IT is common knowledge that exercise has proven benefits for physical health, but how often do you consider it as a contributor to your mental health and wellbeing?

In a world where depression and anxiety are at their highest recorded levels, lack of movement and inactivity is up there as one of the main factors responsible for this epidemic.

How often have you gone out for a walk on a sunny day or been to the gym and instantly felt in a better mood?

One of the reasons for this is the release of your body’s natural feel-good hormones, endorphins and enkephalins, which promote a sense of wellness.

Even just the act of focusing on exercise can get you out of your own head and divert your attention away from your worries, if only for a short time.

Participating in a regular class or activity can also have a calming or energizing effect depending on the type of exercise allows you to interact with others and get outdoors, all of which are known to improve mood and general health.

And now there is substantial evidence to suggest that regular exercise can be used to treat more severe chronic mental illnesses, such as depression, anxiety and dementia.

It directly affects the brain by providing a better blood supply and the delivery of oxygen and nutrients and also improving memory, emotional regulation and learning.

I have experienced my own personal struggle with depression in the past and I know how a good workout or taking my dog for a walk and being outside in nature can make a huge difference to your day.

* To find out more, go to https://facebook.com/eat.train.love.uk/ or call 07714 215807