Move Your Body to Improve Your Mood

May is Mental Health Awareness month, and at Living Juice, we prioritize our whole health - which includes mental health and wellbeing. 

Why Moving Your Body Is One of the Best Things You Can Do for Your Mind

We often hear about how exercise helps us stay in shape, boost energy, and improve heart health. But what’s often overlooked—or drowned out by fitness fads and influencer hype—is how incredibly powerful movement and exercise can be for your mental health and wellbeing.

A growing body of research proves that moving your body doesn’t just change your physique—it changes your mind. In fact, a recent scientific study may be the push you need to get up and get moving— for peace of mind. 

The Science Is In: Exercise Helps Prevent Depression

The HUNT cohort study, one of the largest and longest of its kind, tracked over 33,000 mentally and physically healthy adults for more than 11 years. These participants had no symptoms of common mental disorders, such as depression or anxiety, at the start of the study.

By the end of the study, 11 years later, 7% had developed depression. But here’s the eye-opening part: researchers found that just 90 minutes of exercise a week significantly reduced the risk of developing depression. And even more compelling—12% of future depression cases could have been prevented with as little as one hour of physical activity per week, regardless of intensity.

This isn’t about running marathons or spending hours at the gym. It’s about understanding that even small amounts of movement can make a measurable difference in your wellbeing.

Why Exercise Works for Your Brain

So, how exactly does exercise improve your mental wellbeing?

Researchers believe it’s a mix of physical and social benefits. Physically, exercise increases endorphins and neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine— the chemicals that regulate mood and reduce stress. Mentally, it provides structure, focus, and a sense of achievement.

But there's another layer: connection. Group workouts, sports, or even just a walk with a friend create opportunities for social interaction—something that’s vital for mental health. Loneliness and isolation are major contributors to depression, and exercise can help counteract both.

Exercise Is Powerful—But Not a Cure-All

While exercise can help prevent depression, it’s not a replacement for therapy, medication, or professional care. Rather, it should be regarded as one tool in your mental health and overall wellbeing toolkit. 

Want to enhance those mood-boosting benefits even more? Pair your exercise routine with a nutrient-rich diet. Studies show that diets high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats like olive oil are associated with a lessening of depressive symptoms.

Looking for an easy way to get more nutrient-dense, whole food and plant-based nutrition? Cold-pressed Living Juice is loaded with organic fruits and vegetables, with no added sugar or water—making it a quick, natural pick-me-up for both your body and your brain.

Final Thoughts

Exercise doesn’t just sculpt your body—it strengthens your mind. Whether it’s a brisk walk with your kids, a dance class, or yoga with a friend, every bit of movement counts. So the next time you're tempted to skip your workout, remember: you’re not just doing it for your heart or your health—you’re doing it for your happiness.