When the days get shorter, it’s common for our moods to take a dip staying active is important— not only for physical health but our mental wellbeing.
A major study last year found some types of exercise as effective as antidepressants, but what exercise works best depends on age and gender.
Here are a few ideas to help you stay active.
Walking in the Daylight
The limited daylight hours during winter can affect our circadian rhythm, impacting our mood and energy levels.
Getting some sunlight when you wake helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, and boosts vitamin D levels.
Plus, the rhythmic movement of walking can be meditative, helping to clear your mind and reduce stress.
Indoor Yoga or Pilates
Indoor yoga or pilates classes, or online routines, are excellent ways to stay active while keeping warm.
These practices focus on controlled movements, flexibility, and core strength, which are beneficial for maintaining physical fitness with low impact.
The emphasis on mindful breathing and relaxation also helps to reduce anxiety and promotes a sense of calm.
Home Dance Workouts
Putting on your favourite music and dancing around your living room is a fantastic way to boost your mood and get your heart pumping.
Research published last year in Sports Medicine found that dance was effective at enhancing psychological and cognitive health.
Dancing can also be a great stress reliever, allowing you to let go of tension and embrace a sense of joy. The physical exertion contributes to cardiovascular health, while the fun aspect makes it an enjoyable way to stay active.
Water-based Activies
If you have access to a heated indoor pool, swimming is a wonderful option for winter exercise.
The buoyancy of water makes it gentle on joints, suitable for people of all ages, fitness levels, as well as those nursing injuries or dealing with arthritis.
Team Sports
Indoor team sports—like basketball, netball, bowls or badminton— offer physical activity and social interaction.
Team sports make exercise feel less like a chore and more like a fun social outing. They generally require a commitment so it can be made part of your routine or habit.
An Australian study from 2023 found all sport beneficial for mental health, but team sport even more so.
Making an effort to stay active will help you feel healthier and more connected throughout winter.
For more information, visit the following website:
- Sports Australia
- ABC News: Best Forms of Exercise Treating Depression Age, and Gender
- Athritis Australia: Physical Activity and Exercise (Water – Exercise)
