Playing Team Sports to Improve Mental Health

Participating in team sports can improve mental health.

To honor the U.S. World Cup 2014 team who, in spite of their Tuesday loss to Belgium, played inspiringly throughout the tournament, this week's blog post examines the mental health benefits of playing team sports.

It is no secret that there are many mental health benefits to exercise and physical activity. Medical professionals and the media frequently offer studies and information linking physical activity to improved mood. According to this 2013 article by Treacy Colbert, “physical activity stimulates brain chemicals that make you feel happier and more relaxed.” Colbert also notes that with regular exercise, individuals gain more confidence in their abilities, which with steady and gradual improvements, can contribute to improved self-esteem.
It is likely that you have heard runners talk about the “runner’s high” that they get from a boost in endorphins during and after a long run, or that you know someone who participates in a regular practice of yoga, tai chi, or martial arts--activities known for helping to improve one’s focus and relieve stress. An increasing level of research, however, is now showing that while exercising alone is extremely valuable to one’s overall mental health, participating in team or club sports provides additional benefits.

CBT techniques for a happier, healthier you.

Spring and summer are natural times for renewal. Blue skies, Green shoots and yellow blossoms replace the brown and dour landscape. Formerly gray and dismal, the outside world is suddenly bright and inviting. It has taken a long time to emerge this year in New England, but spring is finally fully upon us.

Now, in the midst of all the natural beauty and greenery, is a perfect time to embrace renewal in our own lives and allow for opportunities for our better selves to emerge. The milder weather and its promise of days spent enjoying the great outdoors is often the perfect catalyst to resurrecting those now long forgotten New Year’s Resolutions that promised a healthier lifestyle. Maybe you had intended to exercise more or change your diet, but something managed to get in the way of progress. As we now move forward and make strides to improve our habits, it is helpful to consider what caused us to slip the first time and leave behind those good intentions!