Exercise isn't therapy, but it is therapeutic
The pursuit of health & wellness is not a replacement for therapy but it can provide a multitude of benefits for mental health. Routine, (flexible) structure, & skill acquisition are things that have helped countless ppl endure difficult times.I am a firm believer in therapy. I think it is one of the most important things we can do for our long term growth potential. Unfortunately, we also have an abysmal health care system in the US that prioritizes fixing rather than prevention and mental health services are rarely endorsed.
In many ways, “you’re on your own”. If you want to live up to your personal growth potential, if you want to achieve greater physical and mental health, you will likely have to do it yourself.
The skills we learn in our journey of health are multifaceted. We learn to emotionally regulate. We learn to improve our relationships (first with self and that bleeds into others). We learn to increase self-efficacy and in turn “discipline” in tasks. We gain confidence.
This increased confidence is imperative in weathering difficult times. When things seem overwhelming, the knowledge that we have the skill and fortitude to ride out the biggest storm makes each impending challenge less daunting. And each successive victory that much sweeter.
Pursue your health goals as a holistic practice. Mental. Physical. Emotional. Spiritual. And see how life can become easier.