Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Bipolar disorder is not just a single disorder, but a category of mood disorders marked by periods of abnormally high energy and euphoria, often accompanied by bouts of clinical depression. This is the place to talk about your experience with bipolar disorder, learn from others' experiences, and find support.

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Does exercise stabilize bipolar I?

ayla67
ayla67
I know that exercise can relieve depression, but I am wondering, does scheduled exercise help to manage bipolar I on the up end, making it less severe or more manageable? My thinking here is that it might relieve some of the restlessness and pent-up frustration and anxiety. I have never tried it and have wondered if anyone else has?
stewie73
stewie73
Excercise is a very effective and natural anti - depression. I excercise everyday and yes go over board with it - but I feel 100 % better for it. Yes meds and other stuff - like therapy - help hugely - but excercise is a very good way to beat the blues. However, when it comes to actually doing some excercise - the best way is just go and do it. Try various forms of movement. For example - running or speed walking. Maybe try swimming or yoga or getting a bike. Personally excercsie that make you sweat the most is the best form to do. I have power showers after a good excercise session. Makes you feel fantastic. Good luck anyway.

Stewie x
spacekat
spacekat
I wholeheartedly agree with Stewie! You can't "fix" bipolar but exercise helps in learning to cope and feel better overall! I have a hard time getting myself to START! I go on long walks with my case-worker. And that helps immensely! So, as Stewie said, "just do it"!
bbipolar
bbipolar
Exercise releases dopamine into the system. That's why you feel great after a workout. I do yoga twice a week (not enough) but I love how I feel afterwards.
chris138
chris138
I feel that it does..and it's good for your physical health too. ;-)
got2breal
got2breal
Exercise is good either way:)
MayB
MayB
Exercise has consistently helped me....

All great replies here....

What do you have to lose? It's worth a try!
ayla67
ayla67
Thank you all for your thought provoking feedback!
gramybear
gramybear
I believe it does and plan a new exercise regime tomorrow, not excuses! Hugs GB
SensitiveHoboLady
SensitiveHoboLady
Yes! It helps!!
quack04
quack04
Moderation is key. In the past I've over done it and sweated out the drugs that were key to my health. I know when it comes to Seroquel it makes a key note to not over exercise.

Stay strong and if your just starting an exercise plan make sure to take it slow.
Halterbroke
Halterbroke
I have headed off mania with intense exercise before. If you wear yourself out you sleep better and that always helps!
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