Dr. Vaishali Suri (P.T.)
The Physical-Mental Health Connection
The relationship between physical activity and mental health is one of medicine's most robust findings. Regular exercise: reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety as effectively as antidepressants in mild-moderate cases, reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), increases BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor — literally grows new brain cells), improves sleep quality, increases self-efficacy and confidence, and provides social connection when done in groups.
The Vicious Cycle of Mental Health and Physical Inactivity
Depression and anxiety cause physical inactivity — low motivation, fatigue, anhedonia (inability to enjoy activities), and social withdrawal. Physical inactivity then worsens mental health through deconditioning, weight gain, poor sleep, and loss of the neurochemical benefits of exercise. Physiotherapy can interrupt this cycle by providing structured, supported, gradual reintroduction to physical activity with professional guidance.
How Physiotherapy Helps
Graded Exercise Prescription
We design exercise programmes that are achievable for patients with low motivation and energy — starting very small (5-minute walks) and progressing gradually. Behavioural activation principles from CBT are integrated into exercise prescription.
Physical Manifestations of Stress
Psychological stress frequently manifests physically: tension headaches, neck and shoulder tightness, lower back pain, jaw clenching (TMJ pain), and breathing pattern disorders. Physiotherapy treats these physical manifestations while exercise addresses the underlying stress.
Breathing Retraining
Chronic stress frequently causes disordered breathing — chest breathing, over-breathing, or breath-holding. Physiotherapy breathing retraining reduces the physiological stress response and improves oxygenation.
Exercise for Mental Health in Faridabad
At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5, Faridabad, we recognise the body-mind connection in all our care. Book your assessment today.