The best kept secret to chasing away the blues is exercise. While researchers have known this for some time, a new book is calling exercise the best blockbuster drug ever.
In a Journal of Psychosomatic Medicine study published in 2007 it was found that after four months those who exercised felt nearly as good as those on those on medication. Of those who felt better: 47 % were on an anti-depressant, 45 % were in an exercise group, 40 % exercised at home, and 31 % were on a placebo.
In Mood Boosters, (January 24 Blog post) I pointed out that not everyone wakes up whistling each morning. If you are feeling a bit blue, chances are you know the reason and you also know that you’ll probably snap out of it soon. In the meantime, exercise will help lighten your mood.
How much exercise is enough? Two of five times a week for 30 to 40 minutes, plus 5 to 10 minutes each of warm up and cool-down is recommended.
Exercise, Boston Globe, Mood Lifting, Smile, Think about things you love that bring a smile to your face and a sparkle in your eyes.
Copyright 2008 Rita Watson