The Session with Tom Russell

The Session: Depression & Physical Activity, part 1


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Session Depression And Physical Activity

Romans 12:2

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is his good, pleasing and perfect will.

 

People with depression often withdraw and are physically inactive.

 

Physical activity does the brain good.

Not only does it reduce depressive symptoms, it actually fosters the brain’s ability to change and adapt.

This dual beneficial effect of physical activity was reported by researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum in Germany following a small study.

 

The results show how important seemingly simple things like physical activity are in treating and preventing illnesses such as depression,”

 

This (study) specifically promoted motivation and social togetherness while breaking down a fear of challenges and negative experiences with physical activity

 

The study team ascertained the severity of the depressive symptoms, such as a loss of drive and interest, lack of motivation and negative feelings, both before and after the program.

 

Neuroplasticity,

The brain’s ability to change. The ability to change is important for all of the brain’s learning and adaptation processes,” The brain’s ability to change also showed reduced symptoms. 

 

What Kinds Of Exercise?

When it comes to workouts that fight depression, aerobic and cardio exercises have the edge. “To date, the strongest evidence seems to support aerobic exercise,” says Dr. Muzina. from Cleveland Clinic While the correct "dose" of depression-fighting exercise is up for debate, some experts recommend 20 to 30 minutes most days of the week.

 

Exercise stimulates the release of many of the brain chemicals thought to be in low supply when someone is battling depression,

Running

Muscle Building

Walking

 

Depression Prevention Web MD

 

Want to learn more about exercise and depression? Many studies show that people who exercise regularly benefit with a positive boost in mood and lower rates of depression.

 

Regular exercise has been proven to:

·  Reduce stress

·  Ward off anxiety and feelings of depression

·  Boost self-esteem

·  Improve sleep

 

Exercise also has these added health benefits:

·  It strengthens your heart.

·  It increases energy levels.

·  It lowers blood pressure.

·  It improves muscle tone and strength.

·  It strengthens and builds bones.

·  It helps reduce body fat.

·  It makes you look fit and healthy.

People with depression often withdraw and are physically inactive. To investigate the effect of physical activity, Karin Rosenkranz’s working group enlisted 41 people for the study, all of whom were undergoing treatment at the hospital. The participants were each assigned to one of two groups, one of which completed a three-week exercise program.

The program, which was developed by a sports science team at the University of Bielefeld, was varied. It contained fun elements, and did not take the form of a competition or test, but instead required teamwork from the participants.

RELATED: Embrace Your Darker Moods And You’ll Feel Happier in the Long Run, Say Scientists

“This specifically promoted motivation and social togetherness while breaking down a fear of challenges and negative experiences with physical activity—such as school PE lessons,” explains Karin Rosenkranz. The other group took part in a control program without physical activity.

The study team ascertained the severity of the depressive symptoms, such as a los

To reach Tom Russell, go to https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com.

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The Session with Tom RussellBy Tom Russell & Scott Saunders