10 minutes of exercise

Even 10 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise can uplift your mood and help ward depression.

The July issue of Mayo Clinic HealthSource says that even 10 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise can uplift your mood and help ward depression.

Researchers now believe that regular exercise has the capability to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, stress, fatigue, self-doubt and hopelessness.

The multiple benefits of exercise, as enumerated by the researchers:

Improved confidence: If you can accomplish even a modest exercise goal, it is easier to take the next positive step.

Positive distraction: Physical activity shifts attention away from unpleasant or unhelpful thoughts.

Improved self-esteem: Improving your fitness or shedding a few pounds helps you feel better about yourself and gives immense confidence.

Positive pairings: The experience of physical activity like breathing changes, sweating, increased pulse can mimic the signs of anxiety or panic disorders. Associating something positive with these symptoms can teach you not to live in fear of them.

Positive coping skills: Physical activity also helps to manage your mood swings and conditions like Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS).