Can exercise help with grief?

Yes, exercise can significantly help with grief. Experts like Kelly McGonigal and Andrew Huberman discuss how regular physical activity can aid in managing grief and depression by altering brain chemistry and improving mental health.

1. Brain Reward System: Regular exercise can remodel the brain's reward system, which is often impaired by grief. This change can enhance the ability to feel pleasure and optimism over time, though it may take several weeks for these benefits to manifest fully 1.

2. Chemical Changes: Exercise induces changes in brain chemistry, such as increasing dopamine and endorphin levels. These changes can provide immediate relief and, over the long term, help the brain recover from the impacts of grief and depression similarly to advanced treatments like deep brain stimulation 2.

3. Physical and Mental Benefits: Experiencing grief often leads to physical symptoms like difficulty moving. Beginning with small, manageable goals, such as short walks, can be a legitimate and effective way to initiate the process of transformation in both the brain and body 1 2.

Thus, incorporating exercise into daily routines can provide substantial benefits for those coping with grief, leading to improved mental health and overall well-being.