Mental Health Month!

Mental Health Month starts May 1st, 2021!

On a regular basis, many people struggle with mental health -- but, this year really put us all to the test. This year’s “theme” to Mental Health Month is “Tools 2 Thrive”, which centers on practical tools that everyone, regardless of personal situation, can use to improve resiliency and health.

The topics that these tools cover are: adapting after trauma and stress; dealing with anger and frustration; getting out of thinking traps; processing big changes; taking time for yourself; and radical acceptance (all of which are pretty appropriate given recent challenges).

A tool we all know checks several boxes on that list is exercise.

How does exercise help mental health?:

• Physical activity acts as an outlet. It helps you to get out pent up energy in a healthy way as opposed to anger or sadness.

• It helps you to feel strong at times when depression, anxiety, etc. make you feel unmotivated and less-than.

• It requires you to take some time for yourself, setting aside specific time every week to focus on you and your goals, which teaches you to prioritize yourself and your well-being first.

• It reminds you that self-care is important and it makes you feel good to take care of yourself.

• It shows you that you can set and accomplish goals, and empowers you with a feeling of success and self-worth.

• It connects you to others, whether through personal training, group fitness, the gym or a shared fitness community.

• It encourages you to accept yourself as you are, strive to make new gains, and practice kindness to yourself along the way.

Remember that there are many tools to help keep up or improve your mental health. Creating a space for fitness and health in your lifestyle, as you do, is a proven, worthwhile tool to a happier, healthier life. So keep up the good work, and encourage others in your community and life to do the same.

For more information on mental health and mental health month, please visit Mental Health America's website.