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The Power of Movement Against Depression
Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While traditional treatments like therapy and medication play crucial roles in managing depression, there is growing evidence to suggest that exercise can be a valuable addition.
Personally, I’d be lost without it. While there have been periods of my life when I couldn’t get through without taking an anti-depressant medication, I would never want to be without some exercise in my days.
As a runner, I thrive off that famous ‘runner’s high’ endorphin boost. But there is much more to it than that.
I would go so far as to suggest that joyful movement is almost the opposite of being depressed. Hear me out…
Stagnation
Have you heard of psychomotor retardation?
The first time my doctor threw this term at me, I was too far into my depression brain fog to really grasp the concept. But looking back, it’s clear to see what was going on for me.
Psychomotor retardation is one of the main features of major depressive disorder (MDD). It is the slowing down or hampering of your mental or physical activities. You typically see this in the form of slow thinking or slow body movements.
