World Mental Health Day: Looking After Your Mental Health at Horizon

Thursday 10th October is World Mental Health Day. At Horizon, we’re passionate about supporting both your physical and mental wellbeing. While it’s well known that exercise improves your fitness, the impact it can have on mental health is equally significant. As we recognise World Mental Health Day, let’s dive into the ways regular physical activity can positively affect your mental wellbeing and the steps you can take to build a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

The Link Between Physical Activity and Mental Health

Exercise isn’t just about keeping in shape, it’s also a powerful tool to boost mood, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity. Whether it’s a quick workout, a swim, or a relaxing yoga session, physical activity stimulates the production of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones. These hormones can improve your mood and even reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.

Here are a few scientifically backed ways that exercise can benefit your mental health:

• Stress Relief: Exercise reduces levels of the body’s stress hormones, like cortisol, and stimulates the production of endorphins, which make you feel good.
• Improved Sleep: Regular exercise helps regulate your sleep patterns, which is essential for emotional and mental resilience.
• Enhanced Self-Esteem: Achieving fitness goals, however small, can build a sense of accomplishment and boost your self-esteem.
• Social Interaction: Participating in group classes or team sports offers an opportunity to connect with others, which is beneficial for mental health.

Activities to Support Mental Health

Looking for the best ways to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine? Here are a few suggestions to help you get moving while supporting your mental wellbeing:

1. Yoga and Meditation

Yoga is not just about physical strength and flexibility; it’s a great way to calm the mind. Many yoga practices incorporate mindfulness, breathing exercises, and meditation, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. We have various Yoga classes available at Horizon, some that focus on meditation and some that focus on the flow of movements. These take place in a group exercise setting so also provides the opportunity to foster an element of social interaction with others interested in this form of exercise.

2. Swimming

Being in the water is naturally calming, and swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise for both the body and mind. The rhythmic movement and breathing required in swimming can mimic meditation, helping to clear your mind and reduce anxiety. Why not combine the naturally calming affect of swimming with the camaraderie of our group exercise classes by joining us for water based classes like Aqua and Waterworks.

3. Group Exercise Classes

Staying active is easier when you’re surrounded by others who motivate and encourage you. Our group exercise classes provide a supportive environment where you can enjoy fun, energetic workouts while connecting with people who share your goals.

4. Walking or Running Clubs

Sometimes, a simple walk or run in nature can do wonders for mental health. Walking outside or joining a local running club allows you to clear your mind, enjoy fresh air, and increase your energy levels.

We believe in creating a community that nurtures both physical and mental wellbeing. Our facilities offer a variety of fitness options, from low impact exercises like swimming to high energy group classes, all designed to meet different fitness levels and mental health needs. You could also make the most of our Wellbeing Hub, which takes an integrated approach to wellbeing and encompasses physical, mental, and emotional aspects. Explore how our services can help to take care of your body and mind.