Counsels on Mental Health

Counsel #5 — Pump Up Your Endorphins!

Picture: Counsel #5 — Pump Up Your Endorphins! CMH 47.1

Another essential key to avoid depression, or come out of its darkness, is exercise. Physical activity helps your brain pump up production of “feel-good” neurotransmitters, called endorphins. Aerobic exercise outside in clean air and sunshine is ideal. If climate or lack of strength limits extended cardio exercise, aim to at least walk 30 minutes every day.^[47] CMH 47.2

Exercise in God’s creation is a wonderful opportunity to reduce anxiety and despondency. Praising God in our hearts while exercising increases its benefits! CMH 47.3

“Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20 NKJV CMH 47.4

“Morning exercise, walking in the free, invigorating air of heaven, or cultivating flowers, small fruits, and vegetables…. is the surest safeguard against colds, coughs, congestion of the brain… and a hundred other diseases.” Ellen White in The Health Reformer, September 1, 1868, par. 6 CMH 47.5

Reflect: What is your favorite physical activity to pump up your endorphins? CMH 47.6