Exercise: one way to control depression and anxiety.

A research program at the Anxiety Research and Treatment Program at Southern Methodist University at Dallas, showed that exercise can works as a therapy to reduce depression and as a useful tool to keep away depressive thoughts. The results of the study were presented at the annual conference of the Anxiety Disorder Association of America in Baltimore.

Jasper Smits, director of the University at Dallas said, “Exercise appears to affect, like an anti-depressant, particular neurotransmitter systems in the brain and it helps patients with depression re-establish positive behaviors.” He also added that “Exercise also can supplement traditional treatments, helping patients become more focused and engaged.”

According to The Real Truth Magazine (online) The Mayo Clinic also “found evidence that exercise improves digestive health and releases endorphins, both of which can ease depression. It also revealed that aerobic activity can increase body temperature, which can have a calming effect.”

The recommended amount of physical activity by the World Health Organization is:

• Age 5-18: 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity each day that is developmentally appropriate and involves a variety of activities.
• Age 18-65:
  • 0 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity 5 days per week; OR
  • 20 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity 3 days per week; OR
  • an equivalent combination of moderate- / vigorous-intensity physical activity; AND
  • 8-10 muscular strengthening exercises (8-12 repetitions) at least 2 days per week.
• Age 65 and more:
  • Same recommendations as described for adults (outlined above) with due consideration for the intensity and type of physical activity appropriate for older people; AND
  • exercises to maintain flexibility; AND
  • balance exercises.