Updated February 3, 2026
By Laura Eshelman
‘Tis the season of forgotten New Year’s resolutions, when the bustle and energy of the holidays give way to the doldrums of mid-winter and a return to humdrum routines. This is the time of year when many of us struggle to find time, energy, and gumption to hit the gym or exercise regularly. Ironically, physical exercise may one of the most effective tools for restoring the motivation and mental clarity we feel are missing.
The connection between physical exercise and mental health is not new, but more recent research has examined how different levels of movement impact the brain. The good news is, all of it is good! Studies of various intensity levels of exercise have correlated with improved outcomes in the areas of mood, emotional regulation, and overall mental wellness.
Reduce Cortisol, Boost Endorphins & Support Mental Health
One of the most fundamental ways physical exercise supports mental health is through its role in overall physical well-being. People who engage in regular movement are less likely to develop chronic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, and the psychological stressors that come with them.
Physical activity also lowers cortisol levels (the hormone associated with stress) and boosts endorphin production in the brain, which in turn boosts our mood, reduces anxiety, and supports emotional balance and well-being.
Some evidence suggests that vigorous exercise in particular has powerful therapeutic effects. High-intensity interval training, or HIIT, refers to regular short bursts of rigorous aerobic exercise interspersed with periods of lower-impact exercise or rest. A Parkinson’s research study from Yale University revealed that HIIT appeared to preserve neurons that produce dopamine (an important neurotransmitter in mood regulation and concentration). In fact, brain imaging of the study participants demonstrated stronger than average dopamine signals after six months.
However, more research indicates that it doesn’t require high-intensity workouts and physical exercise to help our brains function. A 2024 British university study found that low to moderate activity, including everyday movement such as walking, gardening, or recreational sports, reduced depression and anxiety rates among participants by 23% and 26% respectively. It also reduced the occurrence of symptoms associated with schizophrenia by 27%. These findings reinforce that accessible, sustainable movement can have a powerful impact on mental health.
Physical Exercise, Connection & Confidence
Physical exercise often creates opportunities for social connection, another essential component of mental health. Joining a yoga class, walking with a friend, or participating in group activities can help reduce isolation and foster a sense of belonging. Beyond that, over time, regular exercise can greatly enhance our sense of confidence and self-esteem.
Physical Exercise & Mental Health Treatment at CooperRiis
At CooperRiis, mental health treatment reflects the importance of caring for the whole person, including physical health and community connection. Residents who are centering on their mental health can also work on building exercise into their daily routines in ways that feel sustainable and enjoyable.
Integrative wellness professionals work with residents to identify exercises they enjoy, and offer support in incorporating that into individual treatment plans. Daily walks are a part of life at both residential campuses, the Farm and Asheville, as well as opportunities for tennis, yoga, and running or biking. Residents choose daily between group activities, one-on-one exercise with staff, and working out independently.
While physical exercise is important for mental health because it factors into neurobiology and the prevention of diseases or ailments, quite simply, it also helps us build confidence and self-esteem; these are two aspects that are often lost when someone experiences ongoing mental health challenges. CooperRiis strives to be a place for persons seeking to regain that (or build it for the first time).