Overview

Exercise has been shown to have many benefits, including reduced anxiety, improved mood, better overall physical health, and a sense of relaxation and calm after exercise. Regular physical activity can also improve sleep, both of which are important factors in managing a mood episode. For someone who is experiencing hypomania or mania, it may be especially helpful to incorporate regular exercise into their routine to put all that extra energy to good use. During an elevated mood episode, motivation and energy levels are usually much higher, making otherwise challenging activities seem like a walk in the park. Exercise is one of those activities that you won't regret doing because of all the direct and indirect benefits that come from incorporating it into your daily routine.

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Start slowly and gradually

To reduce the risk of injury and make sure your exercise fits into your regular schedule, it's important to start at a pace that is sustainable and comfortable for you. You can then increase the intensity, duration, or frequency of your exercise over time.

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Set specific goals and track your progress

This can give you a sense of accomplishment and help you see the positive effects of exercise on your mood and overall health. It's amazing how much progress you can make by setting small goals that may not seem like much now, but one day you'll look back and realize how far you've come.

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Find activities that you enjoy

Whether it's walking, running, or exercising, make sure you find something you enjoy doing so it doesn't feel like a chore. You can incorporate things you enjoy into your physical routine, like listening to a podcast or having a nice playlist of songs to fuel your motivation.

Studies and Videos References