Move for Your Mood — Movement and Mental Health Month

Dr. Maggie Parker
May 12
2 min read

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and at Outshine Physical Therapy & Fitness, we believe that movement is medicine—not just for physical health, but for your emotional well-being too. Whether you’re managing stress, anxiety, burnout, or just want to feel more energized and joyful, movement is one of the most powerful (and free!) tools available.

You don’t need a gym membership or a big-time commitment. Gentle, intentional movement can shift your mood, calm your nervous system, and help you feel more like you again.

Why Movement Helps Your Mental Health

When you move your body, your brain releases feel-good chemicals like:

Serotonin – Boosts mood and promotes calm
Dopamine – Increases focus and motivation
Endorphins – Reduces pain and boosts pleasure

These natural brain-boosters are why even a 10–20-minute walk or stretch can make a tough day feel more manageable.

Movement also:

Improves sleep
Reduces muscle tension caused by stress
Builds confidence and a sense of control
Increases energy
Interrupts anxious or repetitive thoughts

A woman is sitting in a meditative pose with eyes closed.

Easy, Mood-Boosting Movements to Try

No equipment needed—just your body, a few minutes, and a little intention.

Stroll It Out (10–20 minutes) Take a stroll through your neighborhood or a peaceful spot. Breathe deeply and focus on your surroundings.

Legs-Up-the-Wall (2 minutes) A restorative pose to calm the nervous system. Lie on your back with legs up a wall, arms by your sides, palms up. Close your eyes and breathe.

Dance Break (1 song) Put on your favorite music and let loose. Move however your body wants—messy, silly, joyful. No rules. #AShimmyADayKeepsTheSadAway

Stretch + Breathe Flow (5 minutes)

Inhale: Reach arms overhead
Exhale: Fold forward
Inhale: Half lift
Exhale: Return to standing

Add in neck rolls, twists, or shoulder shrugs as needed.

Bonus: Pair Movement with Journaling

After you move, jot down:

One thing you’re proud of
One thing that felt good
One thing you want to try again

How Outshine Can Help

At Outshine Physical Therapy & Fitness, we’re here for more than pain relief—we support your whole wellness journey. If stress, anxiety, or burnout are showing up in your body, we can help you move through it with: