Did you know that exercise helps improve more than just your physical health? Yes, yes, they help you feel good not only physically, but also mentally. Knowledge in the field of mental illnesses is becoming deeper, and today it has been established that exercise is a powerful means of combating them. Mental disorders, unlike physical illnesses, have a negative influence on the brain and “affect” mood, cognitive abilities and are even capable of changing personal characteristics. Since ancient times, a more biased attitude has developed towards mental disorders than towards physical ailments. However, with increased empathy, openness and understanding, the effectiveness of the efforts of professionals to solve mental health problems increases. Researchers have found evidence indicating the beneficial effects of exercise on common mental disorders - depression and anxiety. In this case, exercise professionals themselves play a predominant role. Science says: physical activity improves mood and mental state In the studies conducted, exercise is understood as a subcategory of physical activity that involves systematic and structured movements. In this case, physical exercise is intended to maintain or strengthen some aspect of the body's physical fitness. According to experts, there are several reasons explaining the positive effect of exercise on a person's mental state. The predominant number of scientists agree that there is mutual influence and complementarity of direct and indirect factors. What can be observed? Improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation increase the likelihood of a positive prognosis; changes in behavior and improved perception are also possible. These are all positive effects of physical activity. According to available scientific information, exercise can positively influence mental health in a variety of ways. Through improving the “internal” state of the body. Physical exercise is good for brain activity. This occurs by reducing risk factors for mental disorders (cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypertension, various inflammations). Moreover, thanks to increased blood circulation, the body is saturated with energy and nutrients. It is worth noting that depression and other mental disorders are directly related to physical inactivity, but physical activity reduces the risk of mental health problems through increased resistance to stress. Physical exercise is also a kind of stress, which is why systematic exercise increases resistance to other types of emotional and physical stress. As a result, acquired resistance to stress from physical activity contributes to better adaptation of a person in a difficult situation. Thanks to getting used to the stress. The symptoms that some anxious people experience during an attack—rapid heart rate, increased sweating, chills, etc.—can themselves trigger the disorder. But thanks to regular physical activity, people are able to learn to control the signs of physical stress, and, as a result, symptoms of anxiety frighten a person to a lesser extent. Through increased self-efficacy. People who acquire new exercise skills increase their self-efficacy. This, in turn, leads to self-confidence and good self-esteem. Increasing self-efficacy is the key to mental well-being, in comparison with low self-esteem, which plays an indirect role in the development of disorders. Thanks to the development of social contacts. It is a well-known fact that social interaction and communication improve a person’s mood and condition. And training often takes place in some company or with the support of loved ones. Support also tends to improve mood. By distracting from.