How to Exercise for Bipolar Disorder

Dealing with bipolar disorder is a challenge on a daily basis. While medication can be helpful for some, many hesitate to use it because they fear being over-medicated by a psychiatrist. Whether or not you choose to take medication, exercising can be helpful in your healing and in combating this serious diagnosis. According to psycheducation,org, many bipolar sufferers have given testimony that exercise is the most helpful way of treating their disorder.

Instructions

• 1

  Get clear on your motivation. According to John McManamy, "Why bother? I am literally running for my life, that's why. I nearly did not emerge from my last major depression and the prospect of another is simply too horrible to contemplate. Make no mistake, exercise may be as effective as any antidepressant, plus you don't gain weight. The only catch is you have to go out and do it." Please see the Resources information for an inspiring article written by John about how exercise truly helped him overcome bipolar disorder.

• 2

  Start by taking a walk. There are fantastic workout tapes for walking in place at home, if weather conditions and gym memberships pose a problem. Otherwise, go for a walk in your neighborhood, or hit up the local gym for a walk on the treadmill. A treadmill is a fun option because it can help you keep track of how many miles you have walked. Setting an increasingly higher standard for this is a great idea.

• 3

  Enroll in a beginner's yoga class. Yoga does wonders to increase your sense of calm and well-being. This can help you become more calm and focused, and some find that many of their symptoms are alleviated through continued and devoted use of yoga.

• 4

  Take an intense aerobic class as soon as you are more accustomed to working out. Advantages of this include a fantastic feeling when the workout is over. Having released so much energy, a body is often relaxed and happy after a long workout.

• 5

  Get a massage regularly after exercise. Someone with bipolar disorder needs to take extra special care of himself. Treating yourself to a massage as a reward for working out is great forward thinking. Preparing yourself to combat any problem by giving yourself the best chance at feeling great is key to success in conquering--or living with--bipolar disorder.

• 6

  Enlist a workout buddy to help in your exercise endeavors. Choose this partner wisely. Make it a really good friend who is open to listening to you so you can get out all of the frustrations of your day. A good friend, and support system, can make all the difference in overcoming any challenge in life, including this disorder. Be a friend in order to maintain a great one, and this includes doing a trade-off. Offer an open ear and get out all your frustrations and concerns in turn. This will be a richly rewarding experience in your exercise regime. Let the person know you appreciate her help and offer to be there for her in as many ways as you can while still taking top care of yourself.