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The physical health benefits of being active are well known. Such as reducing the risk of developing a number of diseases including heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes.
But did you know that being active is also good for our minds? Being active releases chemicals in our brains which makes us feel good. Being active regularly can help reduce stress, anxiety, depression and anger. Being active can also improve our mood, self-esteem and sleep. It can also give us a greater sense of wellbeing.
Being active outdoors can further increase those benefits, especially if you can exercise in ‘green space’ (such as in parks or where there is plenty of grass/trees/nature). Scientific studies have shown that ‘green exercise’ has many benefits for both our mental and physical health. It can also be a good way to connect with people as well as getting some vitamin D!
Being active releases feel good chemicals in our brain. This helps reduce stress and anxiety. Being active also improves energy levels, our mood and can help us to sleep better. Even making small/gradual changes to activity levels can have positive impacts on mental well-being.
National guidelines (see self-help resources below) advise that adults aged 19-64 should aim for:
For an inactive person the national guidelines may be too much initially. In this case, they advise to start slowly and build up gradually.
There are national physical activity guidelines for children and young people with disabilities, physical activity for early years (birth to 5 years), physical activity for pregnant women, physical activity for children and young people (5-18 years), and physical activity benefits for adults and older adults. See self-help resources below
The NHS Couch to 5k programme is a running programme designed for absolute beginners with no prior running experience. NHS Couch to 5K on the App Store (apple.com) Android and iOS
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Type | Title | Related to… | Provider |
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Apps (iOS)
NHS Couch to 5K App (iOS) |
Being Active |
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Apps (Android)
NHS Couch to 5K App (Android) |
Being Active |
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Websites
Parkrun – a free community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate |
Being Active |
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Websites
Welsh Government Physical Activity and Health Guidelines |
Being Active |
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Websites
National Physical Activity Guidelines | Physical Activity – Public Health Wales |
Being Active |
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Reading
Be Active Flashcard – Gwent Five Ways to Wellbeing |
Being Active, Five Ways to Wellbeing |
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