Physical health and mental health are often viewed separately. But our minds and bodies are deeply connected. Our physical state affects our mental state, and vice versa.
It’s true that a negative change to our bodies, such as an illness or injury, can harm our mental state. But the good news is that the opposite is also true – positive changes to our bodies, such as those achieved by exercise, can lift our mental state. If you’ve ever felt calmer, more content or more alert after physical activity, you’ve experienced the connection between mind and body.
These positive changes to both mental and physical health are often easier to achieve when you’re part of a community. That’s why at Active Luton we strive to foster a supportive environment where people not only become fitter and healthier, but can also connect with others and feel a sense of belonging.
Mental Health Awareness Week begins on Monday 12th May, and its theme is ‘Community’. So it’s the perfect time to share with you how physical health and social connection support your mental health, and how you can enjoy being part of a fitness community.
Healthy body leads to healthy mind (and vice versa)
The link between mental wellbeing and physical activity is now undeniable. And one of the main reasons for that is way physical activity affects our brain. Exercise stimulates the release of certain types of chemicals that boost our wellbeing.
Endorphins are natural painkillers and help to increase your mood. Another is dopamine, a neurotransmitter that carries messages through your brain and nervous system. Increases in dopamine create feelings of satisfaction and pleasure.
When people are struggling mentally, they can have lower levels of these ‘happy’ chemicals in their bodies. This can lead to things like depression, anxiety, fatigue and lack of motivation. Alcohol, sugary snacks, smoking or drugs (prescription or recreational) provide an artificial ‘quick hit’ of dopamine.
However, this soon wears off. In the long run, relying on these methods doesn’t work because they cause us to produce less and less of the chemicals that maintain our wellbeing.
Exercise gives you that dopamine hit in a much healthier way. And the more you do it, the better your body becomes at producing those happy hormone, so the more likely you are to feel good.
Further boosts come when you notice your body becoming stronger, slimmer, more flexible, it can boost your self-esteem. And the sense of achievement when you do something that you couldn’t do a week ago can be so powerful. It can help give you your confidence back.
Exercise has long been proven to stave off illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease later in life. But recently, evidence has shown that keeping active can also reduce the risks of cognitive decline and even dementia when you reach your twilight years.
The importance of social connection to mental health
Loneliness is believed to be as bad for your health as smoking. 59% of adults aged over 52 who report poor health say they feel lonely some of the time or often, compared to 21% who say they are in excellent health.
The good news is that social connection doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A simple walk or a chat over a cup of tea is all it takes. Keeping in touch with people helps to relieve stress and anxiety, and provides a layer of emotional support during tough times.
It’s also proven to help keep our brains sharp, reducing cognitive decline, particularly as you age.
The magical trio – mental wellbeing, physical activity and social connection
You absolutely can feel amazing benefits by exercising alone, or by spending time with people without any activity involved. But combining physical activity with social connection amplifies those benefits even more.
Being part of a fitness community can help you stay on track with your fitness goals. You have people to encourage you, inspire you and make your exercise more enjoyable.
You have people who share your interests and have lots to talk about. There are people who have been through similar struggles to you, with whom you have a mutual understanding so you can help each other.
When other people are involved in your fitness journey, it makes you more likely to show up consistently, as you don’t want to let others down.
You don’t need to spend money or do anything complicated to enjoy these benefits. You might find local groups who go out for walks or runs. Ask around your network or on local Facebook groups and you’re sure to find something.
However, if you did want something a bit more structured or you need some support, we have lots of options at Active Luton.
Support at Active Luton
Group exercise
There’s no better motivator than being part of a group all pushing towards the same goal. With over 200 different classes in our centres across Luton every week with a Multi-centre membership, or over 100 at Lea Manor Recreation Centre and Lewsey Sports Park and Pool with a Dual Centre membership, you’re guaranteed to find something you love.
Social Prescription
People who are lonely or isolated, experiencing persistent low mood or living with long-term health conditions can benefit from Social Prescription.
You can receive up to 12 weeks of funded access to different activities in your community, including physical activity, social/support groups, creative groups, and advice from specialist services.
Whatever you need to help you thrive.
Power Our Minds
Total Wellbeing Luton runs this programme, which helps people with low mood, anxiety, stress, depression, post-traumatic stress syndrome or other emotional health problems to regain a sense of control in your life through exercise. It improves both your emotional and physical wellbeing.
Exercise and connection play a vital role in wellbeing. No matter what your current situation, it’s possible to turn things around. Jay suffered a heart attack during Covid, but with support from Active Luton and TWL, he is now thriving, physically fit with an active social life. You can read his story here.