Trauma is an emotional or physical response to one or more harmful or life-threatening events or situations. It can have lasting negative effects on mental and physical health. Engaging in physical exercise is considered an empowering strategy to overcome the potentially negative and long-lasting effects of trauma. Exercise is important for our overall health, and research suggests when used in addition to other therapies it can help with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The chemicals the brain produces during physical exercise are scientifically proven to improve one’s mood. Moderate to low intensity activitiy three to four times per week for at least 20–30 minutes increases blood flow to muscles, reduces tension and stress hormones and produces the natural pain-relieving hormone endorphin, which helps stabilize depression.
Physical activity not only enables a person to better manage and cope with stressful times, but also has lasting effects. With a decrease in stress hormones, there is an increase in productivity and positivity. Physical activity plays an important role in increasing happiness and serenity in adolescents and the elderly. It also increases resilience against panic disorder, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, distraction, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, etc.
According to the 2022 Trusted Source research report, the practice of yoga, specifically the combination of movement with deep breathing exercises, activates the parasympathetic nervous system to help with many symptoms of trauma. Mindfulness practices such as yoga, meditation or breathwork, all of which are stress reduction and calming techniques, can help reduce anxiety and rebuild negative thought patterns surrounding trauma. Research shows that 8–12 weeks of mindfulness practice can improve how the brain functions.
Throughout our lives we are exposed to negative situations that affect us physically and mentally. Physical activity, as part of one’s daily routine, is effective in improving mental health, rebuilding the body and creating healthy self-esteem.
Physical Education and Sports Center
Ahsen Küçükdurmaz, Filiz Öztürk, Seda Özsoy
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