Getting Active to Ease Menopause Depression: Virtual Reality Offers a Fun Exercise Option
Menopause can bring unpleasant symptoms like hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and mood changes that disrupt women's daily lives. Research shows that regular exercise helps not only physical symptoms but also improves mood and combats depression during this transition.
Menopause can bring unpleasant symptoms like hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and mood changes that disrupt women's daily lives. Research shows that regular exercise helps not only physical symptoms but also improves mood and combats depression during this transition.
However, finding the motivation to work out can be difficult when you're experiencing menopause-related fatigue and discomfort. This is where virtual reality (VR) exercise can help, as you can follow along when sitting if that helps you.
VR provides an immersive and engaging form of exercise in the convenience of your own home. Studies have found VR exercise boosts enjoyment, energy, and adherence compared to traditional workouts.
The gamified environment and visual distraction makes the time pass quickly. VR exercise releases endorphins to lift mood while also improving strength, cardiovascular fitness, and reducing menopause weight gain.
Active VR games get you moving through activities like boxing, tennis, dance, yoga, and obstacle courses. Many can be tailored to your fitness level so you stay challenged but not overwhelmed.
VR also allows women to feel comfortable exercising while managing troublesome menopause symptoms. For instance, you can do a VR workout in lightweight, breathable clothing without worrying about public settings when experiencing hot flashes or night sweats.
The social motivation of multiplayer VR games can help women stick to exercise routines when menopause symptoms or changing hormones sap motivation. Exercising alongside others and having a virtual trainer also improves accountability.
Furthermore, being immersed in beautiful, calming VR environments like beaches, forests, and mountains can reduce stress. This mind-body benefit enhances the effects of exercise on mood.
VR provides an accessible, engaging option for women to accumulate recommended exercise minutes during menopause. Moving your body regularly can help manage symptoms, alleviate depression, and give you an endorphin boost.
VR makes exercise more fun and convenient, overcoming barriers at a time when women need the mood and health benefits of physical activity the most.
Consult your doctor about safe exercise levels before diving into the infinite VR possibilities.
Here's a really helpful leaflet from SAMH..
