What movement activities do you do now? How often do you move? Do you enjoy it? What movement have you enjoyed in the past? Are there any movement activities you would like to try? Are there any barriers stopping you doing those activities?
You might like to download and print this handout to help you reflect on these questions.
There is a growing body of research showing how movement brings benefits to our health. We now know physical activity can make meaningful changes in the emotional processing areas of the brain – from as little as 10 minutes of movement a day. Let’s explore some of the key ideas:
The World Health Organisation (WHO)’s research on physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour (activity that doesn’t increase energy expenditure whilst sitting, reclining or lying down) shows there are significant health benefits to being active.
Meet Brendon Stubbs, a leading researcher in exercise and mental health, in conversation with Dr Rangan Chatterjee, about the scientific understanding of exercise on our mental health.
This 2024 paper further explores the mechanisms in which movement exerts an antidepressant effect.
Research shows that physical activity interventions that are supported by a group, and particularly by a healthcare professional, have greater impact.
Research by parkrun provides a great example the benefit of moving with others – find out more here.
The following article found that there are three ways to help us stay motivated:
You can download and print a handout of links to these proof videos here.
There are lots of things you can try to help you move more – see if any of these ideas inspire you to make a change!
You might like to download and print this handout of these suggestions.
Understanding the relationships between the different pillars of Lifestyle Medicine can allow us to use our strengths to support the areas we are trying to change.
Click on the icons below to find out more about the other pillars.
You can also download and print a handout of these relationships here.
Moving more may help us to fall asleep more easily
Moving more may motivate us to fuel well with nutritious food
Moving more can reduce stress levels in the body and mind
Moving more can create opportunities to be with other people and encourage you to be outside and connect with your environment
Moving more and finding the joy of movement can lessen the urge to use unhelpful coping strategies
You may find you have more energy to move if you have had a more restful night’s sleep
Eating good quality food can make you enjoy movement activities more
Feeling less stressed can make trying new movement activities less daunting
Movement has been shown to be easier with the support of others
Minimising unhelpful coping strategies can make physical activity feel easier and more enjoyable
Here are some more insights you might find helpful to explore:
What do you notice when you move more? What helps you move more?
You might find it helps to keep a note of the things that particularly support you with moving more, so you can refer back any time you need. You can download and print this handout if you find it helpful.
