Which exercise setting gives you the best mental health return on investment?
As a somatic therapist dedicated to unlocking the pathways to well-being for myself and my clients, I’m constantly seeking the most powerful tools to enhance their physical and emotional health. It’s no secret that exercise is a key player in this pursuit, a remarkable gateway to feelings of vitality, positivity, and overall well-being but in a world teeming with a plethora of mental wellless choices, I frequently contemplate whether the environment, when harmoniously combined with exercise, unlocks the door to the most profound transformations.
In this blog post, I present a research-based compilation that ranks the pairings of exercise, environments, and social connections, from the least to the most effective, providing invaluable insights for enhancing your well-being.
Good is the enemy of the best…
8. Exercise Alone at Home
Exercising alone at home can still provide valuable mental health benefits. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. While you may miss out on the benefits of nature and social interaction, the act of exercising itself can boost your mood.
Runner up to the least effective is this guy…
7. Exercise with a Loving Partner at Home
Exercising with a loving partner at home can be a delightful experience, offering emotional support and bonding. It’s worth noting that the presence of a partner can make workouts more enjoyable, and shared activities can lead to improved overall well-being.
Coming in at #6 is this homebased group activity option…
6. Exercise at Home with Friends
Exercising at home with friends can provide social interaction, which is essential for mental health. Scientific research suggests that social connections can boost mood, reduce feelings of isolation, and enhance overall well-being.
Things get more beneficial when we leave the house…
5. Exercise at the Beach
Exercising at the beach can be a unique and calming experience. Scientific studies reveal that the sights and sounds of the ocean have a soothing effect on the brain, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. The beach offers the added benefit of natural beauty and tranquility.
Level up well-being rewards when we invite friends to join…
4. Exercise in Nature with Friends
Combining exercise with the great outdoors and social interaction can be a powerful combination. Research shows that spending time in nature and socializing both have positive effects on mental health. So, when you mix the two, it’s a recipe for improved well-being.
Surrounding yourself with dirt and trees and the benefits increase…
3. Exercise on a Hiking Trail
Hiking on a trail in nature is a fantastic way to boost mental health and happiness. The combination of physical activity and immersion in a natural setting has been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The sights and sounds of the great outdoors provide a mood-lifting experience.
Coming in as first runner up…
2. Exercise Alone in Nature
Exercising alone in a natural environment can significantly benefit your mental well-being. Numerous studies support the idea that being in nature reduces stress, improves mood, and enhances mental clarity. Nature’s calming influence can work wonders for your emotional and psychological state.
The creme de la creme of all mental wellness options…
1. Exercise with a Loving Partner in Nature
The most beneficial scenario for mental health and happiness combines the magic of nature with the support of a loving partner. Studies show that being in nature reduces stress and improves overall well-being. When you add the emotional support of a loving partner, it creates a harmonious and joyful experience that tops the list for mental health and happiness.
As we stepped into the natural world, the benefits continued to evolve. The beach’s calming influence, the therapeutic power of hiking trails, and the tranquility of solitary exercise in nature all demonstrated their capacity to reduce stress and enhance our emotional and psychological state.
However, the pinnacle of mental wellness revealed itself when we combined the beauty of the outdoors with the support of a loving partner. This harmonious union creates an experience that stands as the gold standard for mental health and happiness.
In summary, this research-based ranking not only guides us on our quest for well-being but also underscores the profound impact of our environment and our relationships on our holistic health. It reminds us that, at times, the most transformative and uplifting experiences are found where the heart and the world around us find perfect alignment.
Your presence here has made all the difference, and I am incredibly thankful for your time, attention, and engagement. Whether you stumbled upon this blog post by chance or are a dedicated follower, your support means the world to me.
With all the warmth and love in the world,
Sarah Alperin
Somatic Therapist, Child Behavior Expert, ICF PCC Somatic Coach, Founder & CEO The Well-Being Collective
