For more than two decades, mental healthcare organizations around the world have honored May as Mental Health Awareness Month. This time of observance shares information and awareness about mental health disorders, how to live a wholesome and authentic lifestyle, and how to keep an eye on mental health for yourself, your family, and your friends.

This year’s theme is perfect for everything we stand for here at F3 Wellness Connections: “Get Moving For Mental Health”!

Today, we’re exploring the history of Mental Health Awareness Month, and why exercise has such a profound impact on our mental health. And stay tuned til the end — we’ve got a curated kettlebell and bodyweight workout designed to boost endorphins and leave your blood pumping and a smile on your face.

What is Mental Health Awareness Month?

Started in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to share information about mental health in the US. It’s also a time to celebrate anyone recovering from a mental illness, no matter where they are in their mental health journey.

“Mental health” isn’t limited to diagnosed conditions — simple acts of self-care, following a good diet, and getting plenty of exercise all contribute to making us feel content, proud of ourselves, and ready to take on the world.

Organizations like SAMHSA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) offer annual resources and guidance for people looking to improve their mental health. These organizations also offer guidelines on how to look out for friends and family, like caring for elders or connecting with neighbors.

What does it mean to “get moving for mental health”?

This year, Mental Health Awareness Month’s annual theme is “Get Moving For Mental Health”!

In short, the idea behind Mental Health Awareness Month 2024 is that getting regular exercise, fresh air, and sunshine can do wonders for our mental health.

Especially after a long winter (and a long spring of rain and mist!), exercise is the key to boosting endorphins and serotonin, two chemicals that boost happiness in the brain.

Exercise is good for mental health because it:

• Reduces tension and stress

• Can be a distraction from stressful or unpleasant things

• Helps you sleep better at night

• Improves digestion, circulation, and metabolism

• Adds years to your life

• Boosts your energy levels and sense of alertness

• Improves your memory

• Helps you feel more relaxed, positive, and connected with yourself and the world around you

How can I celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month?

Looking for a workout for Mental Health Awareness Month? This carefully-curated kettlebell and bodyweight workout from F3 is the perfect way to get your heart pumping and those “happy chemicals” boosted in your brain.

With just 30 minutes needed to complete this bodyweight workout for mental health, this half-hour exercise routine is perfect for anyone on-the-go, traveling, or trying to fit in a workout around a busy day.

30-Minute Circuit Workout for Mental Health

In this half-hour circuit workout, you’ll complete every exercise a total of five times. Start at the top of the list, work your way down, take a short break to catch your breath, and jump right in. By the time you’re done, you’ll have set your brain up for the ultimate good-mood success!

You’ll need:

• A kettlebell at your appropriate weight (between 26-53 lbs for men, or 18-35lbs for women)

• Water

• A towel (optional)

• Space to rock!

The circuit:

• 10 one-handed swings (5 on the right, 5 on the left)

• 10 burpees with a pushup

• 15 two-handed swings

• 15 jump squats

• 25 alternating swings

• 25 lunges

• 50 two-handed swings

• 50 bicycle crunches

• REST: 30 seconds to 2 minutes

• Repeat!

Repeat the circuit until you’ve completed it five times — then, you’re done!

Looking for other quick workouts for Mental Health Awareness Month? We’ve got you covered.

Connect with our team at sarah@f3wellnessconnections.com to learn more about our personal training, kettlebell training, HIIT classes, and more!