How Abu Dhabi 360 initiative ties fitness with mental health
Community approach by Abu Dhabi Sports Council encompasses ‘whole-person’ view
How fitness levels impact mental health is a key message of the ongoing Abu Dhabi 360 community initiative launched by Abu Dhabi Sports Council last month.
Taking a 360-degree approach, the programme aims to achieve‘whole person’ wellness through an attainable journey that redefines health and fitness.
“It may sound unusual, but it can be helpful to approach your mental wellbeing like an athlete,” said Dr Haseeb Rohilla, an expert in adult mental wellbeing. “To ensure you’re at your best mentally, you need to care for yourself physically.”
Get moving
First, find a way to move your body. Go for a walk or swim, dance to some music, play some football, or even do some stretching at home. The Abu Dhabi 360 app can provide workout suggestions to suit you.
“Exercise is like a triple threat for a low mood. In fact, a healthy diet, good sleep and exercise is all that is required to alleviate mild problems with mood,” said Dr Rohilla.
He explained that exercise produces endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals in the brain. It also increases your heart rate, which triggers another chemical called norepinephrine, which helps deal with stress effectively. Exercise also increases blood flow to the brain.
Food for thought
The second component of caring for your body is fuelling it properly. “If you’re feeling low, try to resist the temptation to reach for comfort foods that contain a lot of sugar, fat, and refined carbohydrates,” said Dr Rohilla. “You’ll feel good for a few minutes, but you’ll crash soon after and may feel even worse.”
IHe suggested trying a snack
with protein and vegetables, like carrot sticks and hummus. For other recipes, check out the Abu Dhabi 360 app.
Exercise is like a triple threat for a low mood. A healthy diet, good sleep and exercise is all that is required to alleviate mild problems with mood.”
Eight hours of sleep
The third component is getting enough sleep. “Fatigue significantly affects mood,” said Dr Rohilla. “It also makes it harder to cope with challenges. Make sure you get a full eight hours of sleep at night.
:Try to avoid screen time an hour or two before you go to sleep and instead use that time to read, journal or even meditate. you’ll be amazed at how much better you feel.”
Dr Haseeb Rohilla | Expert in adult mental wellbeing
Talk to a friend
Finally, if you’re feeling blue, reaching out to someone you care about might not be a bad idea. “You can talk about how you’re feeling, do something you enjoy together, or even just ask them to share a funny story—laughter really is a good medicine,” he said.