Move body and mind: five exercises to improve mental health, from twists to lunges
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Combining ideas from therapy with physical activity can bring huge health benefits, say the therapists pioneering a holistic approach. A paradox at the heart of current thinking on health is that we’re all aware, perhaps agonisingly so, that exercise is good for us and can be especially beneficial to mental health. As the number of people presenting to their doctors with mood disorders continues to climb, more GPs are urging us to exercise more. It has even been available on the NHS as treatment for mild mental health issues since 2019. But for many people, doing more exercise remains a hard ask.
![[Kevin Braddock and Jo Hazell-Watkins, trainers and co-owners of Sowa Space in Shropshire.]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/ad32ea3cb3361f26a5d29939129e900b82eb268c/0_485_8058_4835/master/8058.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
We all know we should do more exercise and arguments for its benefits hardly need repeating: improved blood pressure, better sleep, strength, mobility, confidence, mood and posture, perhaps even a better reflection when we look in the mirror. If we are looking at ways to exercise for psychological benefits, we should be honest: exercise hurts, even if you do it regularly. It’s boring, repetitive and hard to stick to.
![[Jo Hazell-Watkins does the goblet squat.]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/3a7c29821e0a6356c99d31bf87ae0db98548f6d5/0_2190_5464_5530/master/5464.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
Images of sleek bodies telegraphed by sportswear brands often set unrealistic ideas of what’s attainable. Meanwhile, the over-mirrored gym experience can be alienating – perhaps even anxiety-inducing. So one of the first switches to make if you’re looking for the mental benefits of exercise is the motive for it. Why are you making yourself do this? And what do you hope to get out of it? That way, hopefully, exercise becomes internal and psychological, instead of external and aesthetic.
![[Jo Hazell-Watkins does the side lunge.]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/2fd83fe02d69feb18bd9ffc57796419e3b19c569/0_924_7058_4235/master/7058.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
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