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Exercise and creative classes to boost your mood

As a carer, it’s essential to make time for yourself to combat any potential stress from your work and continue to provide good care. Attending a regular exercise or creative class a few times a week will help boost your mood and give your mind a much-needed break from your caring responsibilities.

There’s a wide range of activities and classes to choose from. Try to find one that appeals to you rather than doing it because you think you should. Whether you want to combine socialising with exercise or do something creative, there are plenty of options.

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The best exercise classes to reduce stress and anxiety

Pilates

Founded by physical trainer Joseph Pilates in the 1920s to rehabilitate injured prisoners of war, Pilates is a low-impact exercise class. It consists of precise movements that strengthen your core muscles and improve your balance and posture. Pilates will benefit you when carrying out more physical aspects of your caring role and improve your mood and sleep.

Yoga

There are many types of yoga, some more dynamic than others. Vinyasa yoga, also known as “flow yoga, " is seen as a type of meditation. You move seamlessly from one pose to another, focusing on your breathing. It will help you unwind and relax. However, any yoga class will benefit you. Hatha Yoga is particularly popular with beginners as it combines yoga postures with breathing exercises to calm the mind.

Kickboxing or boxing fitness

While more strenuous than yoga or Pilates, boxing fitness can be an excellent way to relieve stress and anxiety. A study from the Japan Journal of Physical Education, Health & Sports Sciences published in January 2014 showed that participants in a regular kickboxing class experienced reduced anxiety and depression. Most gyms have boxing fitness or combat-style classes. You may need to bring your own boxing gloves.

Zumba

Zumba is a popular exercise class that combines Latin-inspired dance with aerobic exercise to get a good workout while having fun. It also includes elements of salsa, merengue and hip-hop. It’s suitable for all abilities, so even if you’ve never danced before, you can join a local class and learn the moves as you go along.

 

The best creative classes for boosting mood

Drawing or art classes

Drawing and painting are good ways to express yourself creatively and socialise with others. Creating a painting or drawing can be very rewarding and boost your self-confidence when you improve.


Writing or poetry classes

Writing is a great way to get your thoughts out and relieve anxiety. It’s a therapeutic way to calm your mind. You may wish to join a writing or poetry group to share your work with others and explore your creativity. You don’t have to be a gifted writer to enjoy it – simply having an interest in expressing yourself through words is enough. Keeping a daily journal can be very cathartic if you don’t fancy joining a class.

Language classes

There are many benefits to learning a new language. Research has shown that people who learn a new language develop a better memory and an improved ability to solve problems and concentrate. It’s also a great confidence booster. Look online to find local classes in your area, or you can use a language app like Rosetta Stone or Duolingo if you don’t want to join a class.

 

 

Sources:

Language Connects Foundation

https://www.languageconnectsfoundation.org/connect-with-language/the-benefits-of-learning-languages#:~:text=Research%20indicates%20that%20people%20who,cognitive%20decline%20as%20you%20age.