For mental health awareness week I thought I'd share some great information from the Mayo Clinic on how exercise can mitigate the symptoms of depression and anxiety.  In addition to the obvious physical health benefits of exercise, research on anxiety and depression indicates that exercise provides both psychological and physical benefits that can reduce feelings of anxiety and improve mood.

Exercise releases "feel good" brain chemicals like endorphins and reduces certain immune related chemicals that can increase depression symptoms such that it can alleviate depression or anxiety episodes.  Likewise, regular physical activity can help keep depression and anxiety at bay.

Additionally, exercise can instill confidence, self-esteem and feelings of success which counter the negative mindsets of anxiety and depression.

It doesn't require long intense bouts of physical activity to have an impact.  Even  short bouts of exercise, 5 minutes here and 10 minutes there, throughout the day can make you feel better.

Click for more info from The Mayo Clinic on Exercise Impact on Depression & Anxiety