Looking after our mental health is incredibly important these days. Studies have shown that one in four people across England experience mental health problems, yet so many of us don’t look after ourselves properly, whether we have a slight bit of anxiety, are struggling with extreme depression, or even find ourselves falling victim to addiction.

Getting help from a private mental health clinic can be a vital step for people who want to try and manage their mental health more effectively, while even just making small lifestyle changes such as exercising can make a difference.

There are many gentler forms of exercise out there that can be really effective for improving our mental health, so if you are struggling, here are five to get you started…

Walking in Nature

One of the easiest, yet also most effective ways of improving your mental health is to get out and take a walk. Heading out to the nearest countryside, park, woodland or coast can be so valuable. The combination of gentle physical activity combined with being amongst natural surroundings can really work wonders for our mood.

Studies have shown that being around green spaces can reduce stress, improve concentration and enhance overall wellbeing. It allows your mind to reset, while the rhythmic motion of putting one foot in front of the other can be incredibly calming and almost meditative. Even just 20 minutes per day can make all the difference to your mental health.

Yoga

Yoga is considered the ultimate stress buster by many and millions of people have taken it up to aid their mental health. It’s an excellent way to ease mental tension, combining physical poses, breathing techniques and meditation.

It’s incredibly accessible, with poses to suit all abilities, and practising it regularly can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression as it lowers cortisol levels and increases the production of serotonin. What’s more, it encourages you to stay present in the moment, which can be so effective in ridding your mind of those intrusive thoughts.

Tai Chi

An ancient martial art, which is often described as “meditation in motion”, Tai Chi uses flowing movements that are designed to be performed in a relaxed and mindful manner.

The slow movements help people improve balance, coordination and flexibility, while promoting relaxation. There’s a real emphasis on controlled breathing, which can aid a busy mind and help people rid their thoughts of anything negative and really begin to boost mood.

Swimming

Swimming is becoming more and more popular, and a trip to the pool or going wild swimming can make all the difference to our mental health. The low-impact exercise is suited to all, and the repetitive motion of swimming lengths, combined with the sound of the water can create a calming and rhythmic effect.

Swimming is proven to not only be a great low-intensity, full-body workout, but also can improve sleep patterns, increase energy levels and contribute to a more positive mood.

Gentle Stretching

Stretching is often overlooked as a form of exercise, but it can be incredibly beneficial for mental health. Gentle stretching helps to release muscle tension, improve flexibility, and increase blood flow to the brain, all of which can contribute to a sense of relaxation and well-being.

Incorporating a short stretching routine into your day, particularly in the morning or before bed, can help reduce stress and promote a calm state of mind. Focusing on your breath as you stretch can enhance the relaxing effects, making it a simple yet effective way to ease anxiety and improve your mental health. Stretching is also an excellent way to reconnect with your body, helping you to stay grounded and present.