Daily exercise can help you cope with the stress of motherhood. Exercise releases endorphins into the brain and endorphins are nature's antidepressants. In fact, research has shown that regular exercise can be as effective as psychotherapy in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. It is also known to reduce anxiety and help fight feelings of hopelessness. Feelings of tension, fatigue, and anger are all positively affected by exercise.
Finding time to exercise is probably the main obstacle most new moms face in attempting to start or maintain an exercise regimen. Trying to exercise while the baby is down for a nap is probably not the best option. Instead, include your baby in your exercising. Invest in a good jogging stroller and a quality pair of shoes for yourself and make it a daily habit to go for a walk or jog with your infant. A fifteen or twenty minute stroll twice a day can give you the exercise you need and can be easily incorporated into your daily routine and boost your physical and mental health at the same time.
