When you’re feeling down and out sometimes getting up and out is the last thing you want to do. But did you know, for most of us, moving your body in some form (any form!) of exercise can be just as good as taking an anti-depressant in terms of the positive results you get?

Just a little exercise can help reduce both depression and anxiety because it makes your brain happy! How does it do that? Regular exercise causes your brain to release endorphins and other natural brain chemicals that enhance your sense of well-being and make you FEEL GOOD!

Exercise is free, doesn’t require any special equipment, and if we don’t put too many barriers in our own way, it’s also easy.

Don’t like running, lifting weights, going to the gym or playing basketball? There are other ways to get your heart pumping! Try putting some happy tunes in your ears and dancing, get outside and do some gardening, wash your car, go for a walk around the block.

Anything that gets you out of your chair, off the couch, out of bed, away from your digital screen, and moving can help improve your mood.

You “don’t have time” to exercise? You don't have to do it all at once! Break up your day with some “sneaky exercise.” Going upstairs? Go up and down five times instead of only once! Going to the post office, hardware store, grocery store? Ride your bike, walk, or at least park your car in the furthest parking spot instead of the closest one.

Find activities you enjoy, and look for “sneaky exercise” opportunities to make sure that you move your body in some capacity every day. Your body and mind will reward you many times over.