From the first menstrual cycle to menopause, women experience fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone, which impact fertility, brain chemistry, and mood. When estrogen dropsΓ’β¬βsuch as before a period or leading up to menopauseΓ’β¬βso does serotonin, a key Γ’β¬Εfeel-goodΓ’β¬Β brain chemical. This can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and even conditions like severe PMS or postpartum depression.
Exercise helps counteract these hormonal shifts by releasing endorphins, natural mood boosters often called the Γ’β¬ΕrunnerΓ’β¬β’s high.Γ’β¬Β According to Dr. Horowitz, Γ’β¬ΕItΓ’β¬β’s our bodyΓ’β¬β’s way of substituting one natural chemical for another.Γ’β¬Β For some women, this can reduce or even eliminate the need for antidepressants.
Even after menopause, when estrogen is permanently lower, exercise continues to support mental health. One study found that postmenopausal women who exercised saw an 18Γ’β¬β22% improvement in anxiety and depression, while those who didnΓ’β¬β’t saw no change.
