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Safety, Health, Environmental & Quality Bulletin No 682

25 July 2019

Physical Activity and Mental Health

There are many studies which have shown that doing physical activity can improve mental health. For
example, it can help with:

• better sleep – by making you feel more tired at the end of the day
• happier moods – physical activity releases feel-good hormones that make you feel better in
yourself and give you more energy
• managing stress, anxiety or intrusive and racing thoughts – doing something physical releases
cortisol which helps us manage stress. Being physically active also gives your brain something
to focus on and can be a positive coping strategy for difficult times.

Physical activity does not necessarily mean running or athletic activities, there are lots of activities you
can try, you might need to try a few until you find one you like.

The mental health charity Mind have produced a list of activities you can try, some of which you even
can carry out from your chair. The full list is at https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-
everyday-living/physical-activity-and-your-mental-health/choosing-an-activity/#.XShR_HdFxhE and
includes activities such as:

• Dancing
• Swimming
• Active computer games
• Gardening
• Playing catch in the park
• Cycling
• Yoga

Don’t try to do too much activity to start, build up slowly and try different things. The NHS
recommends 150 minutes of moderate (or 75 minutes of vigorous) aerobic activity per week plus
strength exercises at least 2 days per week. If you are taking medication, check with your doctor before
changing your routine.

We are all a product of learning. Every skill we have; everything we know; everything we believe and everything we do has
been learned throughout the course of our lives. Some of us learn best by studying graphs and charts, some through visual
presentations, and some by reading detailed text books. It is important that we receive information in a format that works for
us as individuals! That’s why at Xmo Strata we use a variety of communication platforms such as bulletins, newsletters,
videos etc. However, if you feel there is a better way for us to share health and safety information, please let us know.
Ultimately, your safety is in your hands – but we will do all we can to keep you well informed!