Bi-directional
Low mood can reduce motivation and activity, while reduced activity can further affect mood, creating a reinforcing cycle.
Physical activity influences mood through biological, psychological, and behavioural pathways. Regular movement help regulate the stress-response system, support neurotransmitter activity, improve sleep, and increase energy. Exercise also reduces rumination by shifting attention toward the body and present activity.
Low mood can reduce motivation and activity, while reduced activity can further affect mood, creating a reinforcing cycle.
See whether activity tends to shift alongside study, work, travel or weekends.
Reflect on how more or less active days coincide with your own check-ins.
Consider activity together with sleep and recovery rather than treating more movement as always better.