Move for Your Mind: How Physical Therapy and Healthy Habits Can Boost Mental Health
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to talk about something we all feel at some point: stress, anxiety, low energy, or burnout. Sometimes, those feelings show up in ways we don’t expect:
Tight shoulders or jaw pain
A nagging backache
Constant fatigue
Trouble sleeping
A general feeling of “off”
We understand how closely connected your mind and body really are. And the good news? Physical therapy and simple daily habits can help you feel better, inside and out.
You're Not Just a Body Part, You're a Whole Person
When you come to physical therapy, we look beyond the pain you’re feeling. Maybe your neck hurts, but we’ll also ask about your stress levels, your sleep, and how you’re really doing.
That’s because pain isn’t always just physical. Anxiety and depression often show up in the body, what we call psychosomatic pain, and it’s very real. But it’s also manageable with the right tools, support, and care.
How Movement Supports Mental Health
You don’t have to run marathons or lift heavy weights to get the mental health benefits of movement. Here are a few easy ways to move your body and lift your mood:
Strength Training (2–3x/week)
Even simple bodyweight exercises, like squats, wall push-ups, or resistance bands, can build confidence and reduce physical tension.
Walk It Out (Most days of the week)
A 10 to 30-minute walk can improve mental clarity, reduce anxiety, and give you a much-needed break from screens and stress.
Stretch & Breathe (3–5x/week)
Try light yoga or stretching with deep breathing to help your nervous system relax. It's a great way to unwind before bed.
Get Your Heart Pumping (3–5x/week)
Biking, dancing, swimming, whatever gets your heart rate up. These activities increase endorphins (your brain’s “feel-good” chemicals) and help balance mood and energy.
The key is doing what you enjoy. The best kind of movement is the kind you’ll actually look forward to.
Beyond Movement: Habits That Help Your Mind and Body
Exercise is just one part of the picture.
To really support your mental health, small everyday choices matter, too.
Prioritize Sleep
When we’re not sleeping well, everything feels harder. Try to:
Keep a regular bedtime
Limit screen time before bed
Stretch or breathe to help your body wind down
Eat to Feel Good
Your brain needs fuel, too. Try to eat:
Colorful fruits and veggies
Whole grains and healthy fats
Lean proteins like chicken, fish, or beans
Cutting back on processed foods and sugar can also help you avoid energy crashes.
Stay Hydrated
Even mild dehydration can make you feel foggy or irritable.
Aim for half your body weight in ounces of water each day
Keep a water bottle with you and sip throughout the day
You Deserve to Feel Better
You're not alone if you’ve been feeling “off” lately, physically, mentally, or both.
And you don’t have to push through it alone, either.
Our team at Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine is here to help. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or just trying to feel better in your body, we’ll meet you where you are and help you take the next step, physically, mentally, and emotionally. With convenient locations throughout North, Central Wisconsin, and Upper Michigan, as well as virtual options, we’re available to meet with you wherever you are.