Q I heard exercise and sunlight help with depression. How exactly should I do this?
A Aerobic exercise of 30 minutes or more, 3 to 5 times a week, has been shown to have effects comparable to SSRIs. Getting 20 to 30 minutes of morning sunlight is effective for serotonin synthesis and stabilizing your sleep rhythm.
Detailed Answer
The antidepressant effect of exercise: Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (walking, jogging, swimming, cycling) of 30 minutes or more, 3 to 5 times a week, has been confirmed in clinical studies to have effects comparable to SSRIs in mild to moderate depression. It raises serotonin, endorphins and BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) to restore the brain and nervous system. Sunlight exposure: 20 to 30 minutes of outdoor activity after waking in the morning promotes serotonin synthesis and stabilizes nighttime melatonin secretion, correcting your sleep rhythm.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Combining Korean medicine treatment with exercise and sunlight simultaneously stimulates the rising of yang qi (yanggi) and the circulation of qi and blood. Even when depression is severe and going out is difficult, we guide you to start with sunbathing by a window and gradually increase from there.
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