More and more of us are suffering with our mental health these days. We live in a world where there's so much to worry about both on our doorstep and in the wider world, and there's no escaping it.
It could be that we worry about what's happening in Ukraine, or how we're going to manage our finances. We may be like the growing number of people who have had to seek help from a drug and alcohol treatment center due to the rise of addiction in recent years. Whatever the reason, looking after and managing our mental health is key.
Experts often point towards sport in order to do that. It can be life changing for all manner of reasons, from the endorphins released through exercise, to the community and support you'll find from partaking at clubs.
But what are the best sports to take up to improve your mental health?
Running
Running is the number one pastime when it comes to trying to clear the head and improve your mental health. It can produce high levels of endorphins which not only give you that natural high, but can also reduce cravings for those that do suffer from addiction. What's more, it can be as solitary or social as you want it to be, with the exercise perfect for running alone, podcast in the ears, or with a group of people, with running clubs available to join in pretty much every town across the world.
Swimming
Swimming significantly reduces levels of anxiety and depression, and it's proven to aid mental health significantly. Studies have shown that people who swim regularly reduce the number of visits they make to medical professionals, while also no longer take medication as a result of their sporting activity.
Team sports
For those looking for something more social and require that extra level of motivation, team sports are perfect for this. You can get to meet like-minded people, develop support networks and create friendships that will last a lifetime.
It doesn't matter what sport it is, team sports can boost communication skills, teamwork, companionship, leadership skills and improve self-esteem, no matter what level of skill you are at.
Cycling
There are plenty of ways you can enjoy cycling, from getting out on the road with a cycling club, to exploring trails through the countryside. It doesn't matter how or where you want to ride your bike though, the social nature of cycling clubs, alongside the physical exertion it requires has proven to be a huge hit with people wanting to improve their mental health.
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