Feel Good..

Physical activity stimulates the production of endorphins, the brain's natural mood

Exercise helps manage tension and depression through several key mechanisms: 

Releases "Feel-Good" Chemicals: Physical activity stimulates the production of endorphins, the brain's natural mood elevators and painkillers. It also increases levels of other neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are often diminished in people with depression.

Regular exercise helps modulate the body's stress response system (the HPA axis), leading to lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol.

 Exercise supports neuroplasticity by increasing the birth of new neurons and the growth of new connections in brain regions associated with mood and memory, such as the hippocampus.

 Exercise offers a break from the cycle of negative thoughts and rumination that feeds depression and anxiety, acting as a form of "meditation in motion".

 Setting and achieving fitness goals can provide a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy, which improves self-worth. Group exercises also offer social interaction, combating feelings of isolation.

 

Exercise helps regulate sleep patterns and quality, which are often disrupted by tension and depression. 

Any amount of physical activity is better than none, but specific guidelines exist for optimal benefits: