It is known that any kind of aerobic exercise, especially swimming, relieves depression. First, it stimulates brain chemicals that enhance the growth of nerve cells. Exercise also affects neurotransmitters such as serotonin that affect mood and produce ANP. It is a hormone that reduces stress. It also helps to control the brain’s reaction to stress.
“We know, for example, that vigorous exercise such as swimming can significantly reduce both anxiety and depression.”
This is according to sports psychologist Aimee C. Kimball, from the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Sports Medicine.
“Currently, there is a ton of research looking at the various mechanisms by which it works.”
On a physical level, swimming workouts release endorphins, natural compounds responsible for elevated mood. Swimming also helps to eliminate excess stress hormones, promoting muscle relaxation. It can even promote so-called “hippocampal neurogenesis”-the growth of new brain cells in a part of the brain.
Moby Coquillard, a psychotherapist and swimmer from San Mateo, California, is so convinced that he prescribes exercise to depressed patients. “I absolutely believe that swimming can serve as a kind of medicine. For me, it represents a powerful complement to antidepressant medication.”
In addition to possible biochemical changes in the brain, swimming requires alternating stretching and relaxation of the skeletal muscles while breathing deeply in a rhythmic pattern. Swimming, because of its repetitive nature, is incredibly meditative, says Coquillard.
“I teach a mindfulness-based cognitive therapy course for depression,” he adds, “and we use a focus on the body in the moment to prevent past thoughts or future worries from invading our consciousness.”
