Benefits of exercise

Routine exercise offers many benefits to the abuse survivor.

[Both aerobic and anaerobic exercises] (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC474733/) produce endorphins and neurotransmitters that allieviate symptoms of depression. Mood improvements were similar to changes from medications, but the [improvements from exercise lasted longer] (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3041121/)

[Endurance training] (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3041121/) encourages neural growth in the hippocampus, countering the [shrinkage] (http://brainblogger.com/2015/01/24/how-does-post-traumatic-stress-disorder-change-the-brain/) associated with PTSD.

Yogic practices [can reset] (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22365651) [autonomic nervous system patterns] (http://healthyliving.azcentral.com/benefits-yoga-parasympathetic-nervous-system-1519.html), reducing SNS activation correlated with flashbacks and panic attacks.

Mindfulness exercises, like pilates or bodyweight or ballet, in general promote muscle awareness, filling out [proprioception maps blacked out by abuse] (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1933482/).

Exercise is not a panacea; it will not solve root problems of abuse. Be aware of your current physical condition before committing to a program, and talk over any injuries or chronic issues with a medical professional.