We all know that proper exercise and diet is important for our physical health. However, there are also major benefits to your mental health and wellbeing when you look after your body.

Follow these three tips to improve your physical health.

• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

  This is as simple as making sure you eat well, reduce intake of junk food, and remove or minimise unhealthy habits that damage your health (in particular, excessive alcohol, smoking, and drugs).
  The core habits for a healthy lifestyle are:
  • Eat and drink healthily
  • A positive social life
  • Be physically active
  • Sleep 7-9 hours each night
  • Work less than 40 hours per week.

• Importance of Exercise

  Regular exercise helps to boost your mental health by:
  • Increasing production of serotonin and endorphins, which greatly improve mood
  • Improving sleep and energy levels
  • Providing a healthy outlet for pent-up anxiety and stress
  • Distracting your thoughts from the sources of your anxiety.
  Aim for 30 minutes a day of medium-intensity exercise.

• Conduct Regular Health Checks

  This is important if you are aged 40 and over. Have a regular yearly check-up with your GP – this will help to identify the early symptoms of any issues requiring treatment. A regular GP Health Check is not just to check your physical health, but is also an opportunity to discuss any issues affecting your mental health. Your GP will be able to prescribe solutions to mental health issues as well as any physical health issues.