Depression affects many people at some point or another in their lives.
Loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed, persisting feelings of sadness or hopelessness, anxiety, and changes in sleep and appetite can all be signs that depression is setting in.
For severe cases, a medical intervention may be needed, but for a milder case of depression, natural methods are frequently effective at controlling symptoms.
Exercise can be an excellent way to combat the blues.
Here are 3 tips to using exercise as a method to fight depression: 1.
Start out slowly.
The purpose of exercise for the treatment of depression is to give you regular boosts of endorphins, so be careful not to overdo it especially at first.
Consult your doctor for recommendations on what activity level is appropriate for you.
Be careful not to go overboard when you first get into the gym - this is easy to do when your adrenaline and commitment is high.
There is no sense in making yourself so sore that you can't return to exercise for a few days.
2.
Adopt an exercise routine that is focused around cardiovascular exercise.
This is ideal for the control of depression because it encourages the release of endorphins.
These "feel good" compounds are responsible for elevating your feeling of well being.
Good cardiovascular exercises include such activities as running, walking, elliptical, dance, basketball, and swimming.
Choose activities you enjoy.
3.
Work into a regular routine and increase the intensity as your fitness level grows.
An ideal exercise program for depression control is 45 minutes, five times per week.
Vary your routine to help you stay interested and on track, and to avoid burnout.