A well-known research study at Duke University showed that going for a brisk 30-minute walk three times a week is as effective as taking antidepressants to improve your mood. And they found that the group that exercised had more long-lasting benefits than those that took antidepressants.
Why? Exercise increases the release of endorphins and the mood-enhancing neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, the same chemicals that antidepressants manipulate to make you feel better.
Researchers also discovered that during exercise there is an increase in brain emission of alpha waves that are associated with a relaxed, meditation-like state. This feeling appears about 20 minutes into a 30-minute exercise session.
Bounce Back Assignment: Take some steps toward improving your mood today. Step outside for a walk or a run.
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