• Published on: Mar 24, 2022
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

How Can Fitness Boost Mental Health?

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Exercise has a profound effect on our brain function and mental health. Regular aerobic exercise can boost mood, improve thinking skills, and protect the brain against age-related decline. Exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones that have mood-boosting effects. The feel-good effects of endorphins are so strong that they can actually block pain signals from the brain. Exercise also increases levels of norepinephrine, which is a hormone that helps to control stress.

In addition to these benefits, regular aerobic exercise can also help to prevent depression and anxiety disorders. Exercise seems to be especially helpful in preventing relapse in people who have been treated for depression. Actually  Exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones in the brain that block pain signals from going to the brain. Endorphins also trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine. This is why people often refer to exercise as a "natural high."

Exercise also helps to increase overall energy levels and improve sleep quality, both of which can have a positive impact on mental health. Additionally, when someone feels good about their physical appearance, it can lead to an increase in self-esteem and confidence, which can also benefit mental health. A healthy body equals a healthy mind! Exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood-boosters. Regular exercise can help improve your mood and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

In addition to releasing endorphins, regular exercise also increases levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, which are neurotransmitters that play important roles in mood regulation. Exercise can also help protect your brain from age-related decline and dementia. So not only will you feel better mentally when you're regularly active, but you'll also be doing your part to help keep your brain healthy for years to come.

Exercise also helps to increase blood flow and oxygenation to the brain. This can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. In fact, studies have shown that regular exercise is as effective as antidepressant medication in treating mild to moderate depression. There are a lot of reasons fitness can boost mental health. For one, regular exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Exercise also helps to increase self-confidence and self-esteem, which are key factors in maintaining good mental health. Additionally, being physically active can help to reduce stress levels and improve overall mood. And lastly, exercise is a great way to manage symptoms of depression or anxiety disorders.

There are a number of ways that fitness can boost mental health. First, exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones that have mood-boosting effects. Second, exercise is a great way to manage stress. When you're stressed out, your body releases cortisol, which can have negative effects on both your physical and mental health. Exercise helps to lower cortisol levels and therefore helps to reduce the negative effects of stress. Third, exercise is a great way to improve self-confidence and self-esteem. When you feel good about your body, you feel good about yourself overall.

When we exercise, our brain releases a chemical called endocannabinoid, which is associated with pleasure and reduces anxiety. Exercise also releases serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine--the so-called "happy chemicals" that are associated with good mental health. Exercise also helps us get better sleep, which is critical for good mental health. Finally, exercise helps us manage stress by providing a distraction from negative thoughts and emotions. So overall, it's no surprise that fitness has a positive impact on mental health!

Exercise also promotes cell growth in the hippocampus, an area of the brain involved in memory and emotion. The increased number of cells in the hippocampus may lead to a decrease in anxiety and depression. In addition, exercise can help people who are dealing with stress cope better. During times of stress, our body releases cortisol. Too much cortisol can have negative effects on mood, weight and health. Exercise combats the harmful effects of cortisol by reducing its production and helping us to better handle stressful situations

There are many benefits to being fit that goes beyond just looking good and having a healthy body. Exercise has been shown to be one of the most effective ways to improve mental health, mood, and overall well-being.

Some of the ways fitness can boost mental health include:

1. Reducing stress and anxiety - Exercise is a great way to reduce stress levels and it has been shown to be as effective as medication for some people. Exercising releases endorphins which help improve mood and decrease stress levels.

2. Improving self-esteem - Working out and being active can help you feel better about yourself and increase self-esteem. When you are in a good place mentally, it can

When you exercise, your brain fog may lift and you may feel more energized. You also might feel better about yourself and your body. These positive feelings can improve your mood and boost your mental health. Regular physical activity also can help protect against depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems. Exercise may help by increasing self-confidence and improving body image, as well as reducing stress, tension, and anger.

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oils

Best Essential Oils for Stress and Anxiety Relief for Busy Professionals

Modern professional life is demanding. Long working hours, constant deadlines, digital overload and work-life imbalance contribute significantly to stress and anxiety. In India, urban professionals increasingly report burnout, sleep disturbances and emotional fatigue.

While medical care and counselling remain essential for persistent anxiety disorders, natural complementary approaches such as aromatherapy can provide supportive relief. Essential oils offer a convenient, non-invasive way to manage daily stress.

 

How Essential Oils Help Reduce Stress

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts containing aromatic compounds. When inhaled, these compounds stimulate the limbic system, the brain region responsible for emotions and stress response.

Potential benefits include:

  • Promoting relaxation
     

  • Reducing mild anxiety
     

  • Improving sleep quality
     

  • Enhancing mood
     

  • Supporting mental clarity
     

They are not substitutes for medical treatment but may complement stress management strategies.

 

1. Lavender Oil – The Most Trusted Calming Oil

Lavender oil is the most researched essential oil for stress and anxiety relief.

Benefits:

  • Reduces nervous tension
     

  • Improves sleep
     

  • Eases mild anxiety
     

  • Promotes emotional calm
     

Busy professionals experiencing insomnia or racing thoughts may benefit from diffusing lavender oil before bedtime.

 

2. Chamomile Oil – Gentle Emotional Relaxation

Chamomile oil is widely used for soothing the nervous system.

It may help:

  • Reduce irritability
     

  • Ease emotional stress
     

  • Improve sleep
     

  • Promote relaxation after work
     

It is ideal for evening relaxation routines.

 

3. Peppermint Oil – Mental Clarity and Focus

Peppermint oil is energizing and refreshing.

Potential benefits:

  • Improves alertness
     

  • Reduces fatigue
     

  • Enhances concentration
     

  • Relieves tension headaches
     

It is particularly useful during long working hours or mid-day slumps.

 

4. Bergamot Oil – Natural Mood Booster

Bergamot oil offers both uplifting and calming effects.

It may:

  • Lower stress hormone levels
     

  • Improve mood
     

  • Reduce tension
     

  • Support emotional balance
     

Using bergamot in a workspace diffuser may create a calm working environment.

 

5. Ylang-Ylang Oil – Calms Physical Stress

Ylang-ylang oil may help regulate stress-related physical symptoms.

Benefits include:

  • Reducing heart rate
     

  • Lowering mild blood pressure
     

  • Promoting relaxation
     

  • Supporting emotional balance
     

It is helpful during periods of intense pressure.

6. Frankincense Oil – Supports Mindfulness

Frankincense is commonly used in meditation practices.

It may help:

  • Slow breathing
     

  • Enhance focus
     

  • Reduce anxiety
     

  • Promote grounding
     

Professionals practicing meditation may incorporate frankincense into breathing exercises.

 

Practical Ways to Use Essential Oils

Busy professionals can easily integrate aromatherapy into daily routines:

Diffuser Use

Add 3–5 drops in a diffuser during work or relaxation time.

Roll-On Application

Apply diluted oil to pulse points for quick relief.

Steam Inhalation

Inhale steam infused with essential oils for relaxation.

Bath Therapy

Add a few diluted drops to warm bath water after work.

 

Safety Guidelines

  • Always dilute essential oils with carrier oils before topical use.
     

  • Avoid applying directly to sensitive skin.
     

  • Consult a healthcare provider if pregnant or managing medical conditions.
     

  • Essential oils should not replace prescribed anxiety medications.
     

 

Supporting Lifestyle Habits

Aromatherapy works best when combined with:

  • Regular physical activity
     

  • Adequate sleep
     

  • Balanced nutrition
     

  • Deep breathing exercises
     

  • Mindfulness meditation
     

Chronic stress requires comprehensive care.

 

When to Seek Medical Help

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

  • Persistent panic attacks
     

  • Severe insomnia
     

  • Heart palpitations
     

  • Difficulty functioning at work
     

  • Continuous sadness or hopelessness
     

Early intervention improves outcomes.

 

Stress and Mental Health in India

Urban work culture, digital demands and competitive environments contribute to rising anxiety levels among Indian professionals. Preventive mental health strategies, including natural therapies and professional support, are essential in maintaining wellbeing.


 

Conclusion

Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, peppermint, bergamot and frankincense may offer natural support for stress and anxiety relief. For busy professionals, these oils provide convenient tools to promote relaxation, improve focus and enhance sleep quality.

However, persistent anxiety symptoms require professional medical evaluation. A balanced approach that combines natural remedies, healthy lifestyle habits and timely medical guidance ensures long-term mental wellbeing.

 

References

  • World Health Organization – Workplace Mental Health Reports
  • Indian Journal of Psychiatry – Anxiety Prevalence Studies
  • National Mental Health Survey India
  • Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – Aromatherapy Research
  • National Institute of Mental Health – Anxiety Guidelines

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