5 Ways Movement Supports Mental Health

At Modern Chiropractic, we know that movement isn't just about physical fitness—it’s a vital part of maintaining mental wellness, too. This May, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re highlighting how staying active can support your emotional and psychological health. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga class, or weekend hike, even small bursts of movement can make a big difference.

1. Boosts Mood and Reduces Symptoms of Depression

Exercise increases the release of "feel-good" chemicals like endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. These chemicals help regulate mood, making you feel happier and more energized.

Benefits:

Reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety
Provides a natural mood lift
Increases feelings of relaxation and well-being

Pro tip: Even 10 minutes of light exercise, like a walk outside, can offer noticeable improvements in mood.

2. Decreases Stress Levels

Movement helps lower the body’s stress hormones, such as cortisol, while boosting production of endorphins that act as natural stress relievers.

Benefits:

Reduces physical tension
Enhances resilience to daily stressors
Improves sleep quality, which in turn reduces stress

Pro tip: Activities like yoga, Tai Chi, and mindful walking combine physical movement with stress-relieving breathing techniques.

3. Improves Brain Health and Cognitive Function

Physical activity stimulates brain function and promotes neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to adapt and grow.

Benefits:

Improves memory and learning
Slows cognitive decline with aging
Enhances concentration and mental sharpness

Pro tip: Aerobic exercise (like swimming, cycling, or jogging) has particularly strong effects on brain health.

4. Increases Social Connection

Group exercise classes, team sports, and even casual fitness meetups create opportunities for positive social interaction, which is critical for mental health.

Benefits:

Decreases feelings of loneliness and isolation
Builds a sense of community and support
Encourages accountability and consistency

Pro tip: Try a group hike, join a pickleball club, or take a fitness class to combine movement with social time.

5. Provides a Sense of Accomplishment and Purpose

Setting and achieving small fitness goals can boost self-esteem, create structure, and foster a sense of control—essential ingredients for mental health.

Benefits:

Increases confidence and self-worth
Creates daily motivation and purpose
Helps shift focus away from negative thoughts

Pro tip: Start small—tracking your steps or setting a simple weekly movement goal can be highly motivating.

Moving Toward Better Mental Health

You don’t have to run marathons or lift super heavy weights to experience these mental health benefits. Gentle, consistent movement—like stretching, walking with a friend, yoga, or recreational sports—can be just as powerful!

At Modern Chiropractic, we encourage an active lifestyle and pain-free movement for emotional resilience, mental clarity, and overall wellness! If you have any pain or discomfort that is keeping you from doing the activities you love, book an appointment with one of our dedicated team members and discover the path to mental and physical wellness today.

References

Mayo Clinic. (2022). Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469
Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). Exercise is an all-natural treatment to fight depression. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/exercise-is-an-all-natural-treatment-to-fight-depression
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Benefits of Physical Activity. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm
American Psychological Association. (2011). The exercise effect. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/monitor/2011/12/exercise
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-mental-health-benefits-of-exercise