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Better emotional wellbeing just one exercise away

20 April 2017

Blog
Mental health
Being a couch potato can affect not only your physical health but your emotional health too.

Taking care of yourself physically through exercising, relaxing and getting enough rest can help improve your emotional wellbeing.

Occupational Therapist Louise Slater says improving your physical wellbeing can have flow on effects to your emotional health.

“It may require a little extra time and effort to get active and improve your physical health, but it is worth it,” Louise says.

“Not only does exercise help control weight and improve your overall strength and fitness, it also improves your mental health and your chances of living longer.”

How to make exercise a daily habit?

Louise says there is plenty of ways to make exercise a daily habit, and experimenting to find your preferred exercise was a good place to start.

Her top tips:

  • Go outside and enjoy the fresh air commit to going outdoors each day and doing a light activity
  • Take a daily walk around the block and enjoy your neighbourhood
  • Do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day, such as a brisk walk, going for a swim or jogging
  • Use the stairs instead of escalators, it is an ideal exercise to maintain muscle strength
  • Play sport, garden or ride a bike
  • Join a gym.

“Getting an appropriate amount of exercise benefits all aspects of your wellbeing and the best thing about exercise is that it is free.”

St John of God Health Care
Louise Slater - Occupational Therapist

Louise Slater is an occupational therapist at St John of God Frankston Rehabilitation Hospital and has more than 30 years’ experience, working in hospital and community settings.