Are there some people who need exercise to be happy?

Question

It seems that certain breeds of dogs are totally happy to be inactive, and some that go at least a little crazy if they don't live on a farm where they can run.
I have fibromyalgia, and it manifests itself largely with an intolerance of more than 15-20 minutes of aerobic activity, depending on the day. I used to be an athlete, so it is particularly painful to not be able to exercise.
I know people who choose not to exercise, I also know others that I think would go crazy if they couldn't exercise. I'm the only person I know that's is unhappy because I CAN'T exercise more (without expensive treatments and discipline).
It will probably take thousands of dollars of massage treatments & rigorous discipline with regards to diet and tracking activity to get me to the point where I can exercise at least 20 minutes, 5 times a week.
I'm looking for some insight as to whether exercise could be that important for happiness for some.

Answer 1

Yes, I have had depression most of my life, but started excercising about 3 times a week 2 years ago. I have felt a ton better since I started excercising and I am not required to take medication for my depression. All I know is that it has something to do with the endorphins that are released when I excercise, but I feel great.



That must be really hard not to be able to exercise like you used to, my mom has fibromyalgia and it is really difficult because she used to be incredibly active too.



I wouldn't be surprised if not excercising would significantly decrease the endorphins that help you to be happy. That doesn't mean it will, but it certainly is possible.

Answer 2

There are couch potatoes, and there are those who love being active. I know that when I am feeling down, at least taking a walk lifts my spirits - or cleaning something. I'm sorry that you cannot exercise right now; it must be difficult considering that you used to be an athlete.



In the meantime, why not take up a hobby that you can do now? Learn to draw, write, make something, sing and/or play music (music lifts the spirits), read, watch all the movies you've missed, etc. I hope that your recovery will be a speedy one.

Answer 3

Well I'm no expert. But I do suffer from chronic depression and when I exercise, I always feel better and happier. This makes sense since exercising releases adrenaline and other hormones. So I think it is probably true that some people can gain positive mental health benefits from exercising.

Answer 4

looks like life threw you a fast ball.

accept your fate and find something else that will make you happy.