Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Licence needed for work use Learn More

News Video | Policy | GPs | Hospitals | Medical | Mental Health | Welfare | Search

 

The Practical Link Between Physical And Mental Wellness

As easy as it might be in theory to ‘think positively’, those suffering from depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues can find this to be one of the most difficult things to do in practice. While positive reframing, mindfulness, and meditation are all helpful, focussing solely on mental and emotional aspects may not always result in desired outcomes.

Rather, oftentimes a far more practical way of improving one’s mental wellbeing is to focus on completing physical, doable tasks. Science shows that doing an action actually results in feeling motivated to repeat the action – not the other way around. In other words, starting an exercise routine not only motivates one to finish it but to be more willing to undertake exercising again in the future.

For those in a mental health slump, choosing a simple task like washing even just a single plate can help. Chances are, by taking up that single simple action, one will ultimately end up cleaning the whole kitchen. Indeed, simple daily activities like making the bed or going for a brief walk can significantly improve one’s mood. Setting and sticking to established morning and evening routines that exclude screentime and include relaxation techniques like deep breathing and stretching can also result in improved mental health outcomes. That’s because there’s a direct link between physical and mental health, with one feeding into the other.

Aside from embarking on simple physical activities, attending regular talk therapy sessions with a trained professional can prove beneficial. Many psychologists, like those practising at Psychology Care, employ cognitive behavioural therapy as a way to integrate and promote physical and mental wellness. Instead of trying to ‘force’ positive thinking, it is possible to, over time, reprogramme the brain to better cope with stress and manage an array of mental health issues through physical action.

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading

© Scoop Media

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading
 
 
 
Culture Headlines | Health Headlines | Education Headlines

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

LATEST HEADLINES

  • CULTURE
  • HEALTH
  • EDUCATION
 
 
 
 

Join Our Free Newsletter

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.