By: Ananya Anand

Exercise benefits your body, as everyone knows, but it also benefits your mind. Having an active lifestyle lowers stress, elevates mood, and facilitates concentration. Teens who don’t exercise frequently are more likely to experience fatigue, anxiety, or lack of motivation. One of the best ways to look after your mental health is to incorporate exercise into your daily routine.

Why Exercise Matters

When you’re moving around, your brain releases chemicals known as endorphins, which make you feel happier and more relaxed. Being active can also make you more confident and help you concentrate, which can be useful at school and in everyday life. Research has found that teens who are active are less likely to feel depressed or anxious. Even something as simple as going for a walk or shooting some hoops for a game of basketball can make a difference in how you feel.

The Stress and Exercise Cycle

People who are under stress usually feel too exhausted to move, but stress is typically increased when exercise is skipped. Engaging in physical activity allows your mind and body to escape from negative thoughts. Your mood improves, your mind clears, and you feel calmer once you get moving. Regular exercise over time can prevent stress and safeguard your mental health.

Habits That Limit the Benefits

Some habits can keep exercise from helping your mental health:

• Skipping activity for long periods of time
  
• Sitting still for hours without breaks
  
• Exercising only once in a while instead of regularly
  
• Using caffeine or sugar for energy instead of natural movement
  
• Working out too late at night, which can hurt sleep and affect mood
  

How to Make Exercise Work for You

You do not need to be an athlete to get the mental health benefits of exercise. Small, consistent steps are enough:

• Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week
  
• Choose activities you enjoy, like biking, dancing, or playing a sport
  
• Try calming activities like yoga or stretching to relax your mind
  
• Be active earlier in the day so you can sleep better at night
  
• Exercise with friends or family to make it fun and social
  
• Set simple goals, like walking a little every day, and increase over time
  

Final Thoughts

Exercise has a direct impact on stress, mood, and overall mental health. By moving regularly, teens can feel happier, more confident, and more in control of their emotions. Taking time for exercise is really taking time to care for yourself.