Move
Even 20 minutes of daily activity can make a meaningful difference for your mental health. Movement has been shown to aid in depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, and even support conditions like dementia and bipolar disorder. It can also lift your mood, reduce stress, and help with chronic pain and illness.
The best part - you have options. Movement looks different for everyone, and even small shifts count. Whether it’s five minutes or an hour, stretching in a chair, walking outside, dancing, or following an adapted routine, moving your body in ways that feel right for you can bring countless benefits.
“Promised myself I would not let exercise be the first thing to go by the wayside when I got busy … and here is why: it has helped me with my anxiety in ways I’ve never dreamed possible. To those struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression: I know it's annoying when people tell you to exercise, and it took me about 16 medicated years to listen.”
Movement is Medicine
Take a walk on your own or with a friend. Listen to music or tune into your surroundings. Whether short or long, a walk is a simple way to clear your mind and release restless energy.
Embrace holistic wellness with Tone It Up and try this guided Morning Mantra Yoga and Meditation session.
Move with a friend! Establishing weekly exercise sessions with a friend helps with accountability and consistency. This partnership is also a great way to improve/strengthen relationships and build communal ties. Science has shown this to be linked to increased longevity, as well as improved mental, physical and spiritual health.
Try this free 45 minute No Equipment Cardio Class with Kayla Itsines.
Try these free simple stretches led by Allison Warrell.
Check out this 10 minute wheelchair arm workout.
At some point in the day, put on your favorite dancing song and dance like nobody's watching!
Take your phone calls while walking and getting fresh air!
Move In Community
Need Help Now? Call or text 988 or text ‘HOME’ to 741741 for support
If you’d like insight on these mental fitness tools or to connect with someone on the Inspiring Children and #NotAloneChallenge team please fill out our submission form here.