The Power of Movement — Why Staying Active Is Vital for Mental Health
Isolation Isn't Rest — It's a Risk Factor
In a world that often encourages "staying in" and endless screen time, movement can easily become an afterthought. But when our bodies stop moving, so do vital parts of our mental and emotional wellbeing.
Movement is not about fitness goals — it's about emotional survival.
The Mental Health Benefits of Physical Activity
Staying physically active — whether it's a walk, a stretch, or dancing in your kitchen — has direct and powerful effects on brain health. According to a meta-analysis published in The Lancet Psychiatry, people who engaged in regular physical activity had 43.2% fewer days of poor mental health per month compared to those who didn’t.
Movement supports:
Emotional regulation
Mood stabilization via endorphins
Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
Enhanced sleep and energy
Cognitive clarity and memory
Neuroscientists have shown that physical activity stimulates brain regions responsible for memory, focus, and emotional regulation — areas often impaired by stress and trauma.
Movement and Trauma
Trauma often lives in the body. According to trauma researcher Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, "the body keeps the score." That’s why physical movement can be a way to process emotions that words cannot reach. Gentle movement like yoga, tai chi, or walking in nature can help release stored tension and support nervous system regulation.
The Hidden Dangers of Sedentary Isolation
Social isolation combined with inactivity can worsen depression, anxiety, and even cognitive decline. During the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple global studies reported spikes in mental health struggles linked directly to lack of physical movement and reduced social interaction.
Too much stillness can:
Exacerbate low mood and hopelessness
Disrupt sleep and appetite cycles
Lead to physical pain from inactivity
Worsen symptoms of trauma and depression
What Counts as "Movement"?
You don't need a gym membership to get started. Movement can be accessible, gentle, and even joyful. Some options include:
Morning stretches or prayer movements
A walk around the block or in nature
Cleaning, gardening, or household tasks
Dance, yoga, or martial arts
Playing with your kids or pets
Even 10 minutes of light movement can positively affect your mood and energy levels.
Isolation vs. Intentional Solitude
There's a difference between isolating yourself in stagnation and choosing moments of solitude that include nourishing activities.
Unhealthy isolation:
Avoiding people and sunlight
Staying in bed or on screens for hours
Withdrawing from responsibilities and movement
Healthy solitude:
Choosing alone time to rest and reflect
Going on a solo walk or moving meditation
Journaling or praying with intention
Therapy Can Help You Reconnect With Your Body
If you’re stuck in a cycle of inactivity and isolation, you’re not alone — and it’s not your fault. Trauma, depression, and chronic stress can all make it harder to move. Therapy can help explore the emotional weight holding you back and create a plan that feels safe, realistic, and achievable.
Let’s Get You Moving Toward Healing
You don’t have to overhaul your life — just begin with one step, one stretch, one breath. If you’re ready to understand the mental-emotional patterns behind your stagnation and isolation, I’m here to support you.
Ibrahim Al-Sadi, Registered Nurse Psychotherapist (RN, CPMHN-C)
Mental Health Nurse | CBT, DBT & Trauma-Informed Therapy
Founder of HP Therapy — Supporting Adolescents, Adults, Couples & Families Online Across Canada