How Mental Well-Being and Physical Activity Work Together

The everyday effects of sleep, exercise, heart rate and mood — both good and bad — could linger in our brains for over two weeks, according to a pioneering study

A recent study from the University of Jyväskylä in Finland shows that mental well-being can boost physical activity and vice versa.

Key Findings:

  • Positive Feelings Encourage Activity: People aged 60 to 88 who felt more positive emotions stayed active or even increased their activity during the COVID-19 restrictions.
  • Depressive Feelings Lower Activity: Those who felt depressed were less active and more likely to reduce their activity during the pandemic.

Age Matters:

  • Stronger Link Around 60: The connection between positive emotions and physical activity was more solid for people around 60, compared to those over 70.
  • Older Restrictions: In Finland, stricter rules for older adults may have impacted how mental well-being influenced physical activity.

Importance of Mental Well-Being:

  • Positive Cycle: Mental well-being can help keep you physically active, creating a cycle of positivity.
  • Supporting Activity: Focusing on lifting mental well-being, not just preventing depressive feelings, is crucial for staying active, even in challenging times.

Bottom Line:

Supporting mental health is essential for promoting an active lifestyle. Positive emotions are key in helping people, especially older adults, stay active and healthy.