Emotional Wellness

Healthy mind, healthy body

Emotional health is an important dimension of overall wellness that has proven links to physical health. Research clearly shows that regular physical activity provides serious mental health benefits to individuals regardless of their age or fitness level. Exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and negative mood and by improving self-esteem and cognitive function.It has been found that exercise is just as effective as antidepressant pills in treating depression. As result doctors are increasingly prescribing “being active” as an effective tool for dealing with depression.

Exercise has also been found to prevent cognitive decline. While exercise and a healthy diet can’t “cure” Alzheimer’s, they can help shore up the brain against cognitive decline that begins after age 45.

Any activity that gets you moving can help improve mood and reduce stress. Our exercise specialists can help new members find a safe and effective fit for their current fitness level and recommend a workout routine. Incorporating Mind & Body classes such as yoga can also help to increase mindfulness and counteract the negative effects of stress. A range of drop-in friendly weekly classes are available at Wellness and included with membership.

Beyond exercise

Learning to cope with a chronic disease or injury can wear people down, and recovering from some conditions like a heart attack can increase the risk of depression. That’s why psychology services or screenings are offered as part of many of our chronic disease management programs and work injury management program.  Mental Health Services are also available on an appointment basis through our Clinic.

The Wellness Institute and its many partners in community health also offer seasonal education classes to help understand or cope with emotional wellness challenges. Check our Program Registration page for details on how to register.

To learn more about including emotional wellness in your health goals, speak to a Wellness Consultant. There are also many great community resources outlined in the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Mental Health Resource Guide for Winnipeg.