Move for your Mental Health

We know the benefits that exercising can have on our physical health, but did you know that getting your body moving is just as good for your mental health?

When you exercise, your body gets a healthy dose of happy-inducing endorphins and serotonin, designed to skyrocket your mood.

That’s why regular exercise is known to be a stress reliever, energy booster and can help reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Your diet can also play a major role on your mental health. That’s why Fernwood’s Food Coaching program and food plans are based on the Mediterranean-style of eating.

Deakin University’s Food and Mood Centre have found a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, with a high intake of vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, fish and limited processed foods can reduce the risk of some mental disorders.

According to the ABS 2014-15 National Health Survey, 1 in 8 women reported having an anxiety related condition and 1 in 10 women reported depression or having feelings of depression.

The Fernwood Foundation hopes to contribute to reducing those figures by providing women with information and resources for identifying and managing anxiety and depression.

100% of money raised by the Foundation funds research at Deakin University, investigating the role that diet and nutrition plays in mental wellbeing and for the development of scientific, evidence-based programs and services for women with mental health issues.

You can learn more about the Fernwood Foundation at fernwoodfoundation.org.au or visit your local Fernwood North Lakes Club.