How to Overcome Depression With Exercise

Depression is not only a feeling of sadness, but it is often combined with a depressed feeling in the body and lethargy. An effective way to overcome depression is with daily exercise that can help you balance the chemicals in your body and mind for an overall feeling of wellness.

Instructions

• 1

  Breathe deeply. Breathing is an exercise we tend to do without thinking. If you become mindful of your breathing, and concentrate on it when a feeling of depression overwhelms you, it can help you overcome sadness and lethargy. Sit upright in a chair or on the floor, and breathe in deeply through your nose. Follow the sensation of the breath into your lungs and stomach, and slowly exhale. Repeat this exercise until you feel the energy of each breath and a feeling of peace.

• 2

  Take a walk. Any physical exercise increases the happy endorphin levels in your body and can buoy a depressive state. When you feel the need for a boost, take a walk around the block, your office building or on a nice serene jogging path to overcome depression.

• 3

  Work out with friends. An attempt to overcome depression with exercise can often be derailed because of the fatigue that accompanies the sadness. Recruit a friend to work out with you so you'll be more apt to keep up the good work.

• 4

  Join a gym with classes that intrigue you. Trying something new, instead of your old ways of trying to overcome depression, may be just the ticket. Try your hand at toga, Pilates or aerobic exercises offered at the gym.

• 5

  Use Fido to help you overcome depression with exercise. Your dog loves walks, and probably needs the exercise as much as you do. Think of a walk as something you can do for both of you, and you'll be more motivated to get out of the house and out of your sad mood.

• 6

  Talk to your spouse or kids about your depression. With a strong support group you can overcome anything. Let them know that you have set a goal that incorporates exercise into your daily activities and ask for their help and support. You are less likely to let them down than you are to let yourself down.