Traumatic Experiences Community Daily Check-in Thursday 23rd August 2018

Hello lovely trauma family

Following on from sleep with Daisy yesterday, today's topic is exercise] with rozie. Do I hear some moans? Its not so easy to motivate ourselves to exercise and even more difficult to keep it up.We know that its important for our physical health ,but it is also for our mental health.

What are some of the benefits of exercise? Improved cardiovascular health, weight control, and improved flexibility and mobility. Exercise and particularly aerobic exercise, causes endorphins to be released ...they are the body's own mood enhancing and pain relieving compounds. And it reduces the level of the stress/depression hormone, cortisol, in the bloodstream. Exercise can help your nervous system become "unstuck" and move out of the immobilisation stress response.

In addition exercise has been shown to provide a distraction from stressors. Rhythmic exercise like walking, swimming dancing, allows one to focus on the rhythm of breathing or feeling the wind or water on the skin rather than focusing on thoughts. Similarly with spending time in nature, hiking mountaing biking or skiing,.It also provides an opportunity for a sense of mastery and control in one's life and this can boost self worth. And often there is social interaction and enjoyment of shared pursuits.

What are the effects of exercise for those with PTSD? The few studies that have been done generally indicate that regular physical activity significantly reduces depressive and PTSD symptoms. A study by Cohen and Shamus (2009) stated that exercise, particularly mind-body and low intensity aerobic exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on the symptoms of depression and PTSD.

And exercise needs to be fun, convenient and challenging enough if we are to stay motivated. Its needs to begin within our limits and buiid up gradually. Before embarking on any more intensive exercise programme, it can be a good idea to check with your doctor. Joining in with a group can be encouraging and enjoyable. Do you currently enjoy some regular exercise?

Now I'll give Winnie the Pooh, the final words...."A bear no matter how hard he tries grows tubby without exercise."

How is your day going? How do think exercise would be of benefit to you,or is of benefit to you ?.Or pop in to say hi! You are welcome here. This is your space and a safe place.Thank you Daisy for being here too. Love from rozie. x