The Impact of Swimming on Mental Health

Seitheach Wilson Naturopathic Physician Las Vegas, NV

Dr. Seitheach Wilson is a physician practicing in Las Vegas, NV. Dr. Wilson specializes in proactive prevention and treatment. Dr. Wilson combines holistic healing methods with traditional solutions to medical illness. Providing both individual and family care, the most common ailments treated are allergies, chronic pain,... more

It is well-known that fitness is generally good for the body, with benefits including improved weight management, reduced risk of heart attacks, improved flexibility, stronger joints, muscles and bones, and reduced risk of chronic disease.

Did you know that fitness also has a direct impact on your state of mind? Just as physical health is vital to an individual’s well-being, having strong mental health is equally important to one’s general health and happiness. In this article, we will examine fitness – focusing on the impact of swimming on mental health and whether it is the best activity for mental and physical health. Are some forms of exercise better for mental health than others? Uncover the impact of swimming on mental health and how it compares to other exercises.

Your Mental State: The Benefits of Swimming

1. Lowers Anxiety and Depression

Research shows that swimming regularly has significantly reduced the symptoms of anxiety and depression for millions of adults. It can also result in a 30% improvement in self-worth and an increase in general satisfaction in life. In another study involving 4,000 swimmers from all over the world, 68% of the participants said that swimming made them feel happier with themselves.

Swimming also improves concentration, focus, and memory. Making it a great activity for those living with conditions such as dementia.

2. Coping with Stress

Simply being in water can help loosen the body and mind. Studies in rates have illustrated that swimming can help reverse the effects of chronic stress on brain cells through a process called hippocampal neurogenesis. It is also possible that swimming can help individuals manage stress easier.

3. Brain Health

Blood flow to the brain is boosted when an individual is immersed in water, according to recent studies. This results in an increase of oxygen, nutrients, and glucose supply to the brain and a positive impact on brain health.

Another study uncovered that children who learn to swim earlier achieve key cognitive developmental milestones earlier than non-swimmers. These milestones include visual-motor skills, numeracy, literacy, and oral expression.

Impact of Swimming on Mental Health: Swimming Versus Other Activities

While other sports and activities certainly have their benefits for both physical and mental health, swimming has a distinct edge. When compared to other activities such as running or cycling, swimming engages the entire body – more of the body’s major muscle groups than other types of cardio exercises - whereas the other two mainly target the lower body.

Additionally, swimming is a non-weight-baring sport that can be adapted to suit anyone regardless of age or skill. This makes it an excellent option for weight management as well as therapy to help heal injuries. Combined with its benefits on mental health, swimming certainly comes out on top.

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