In this encouraging episode of Distressed to Joyful; Bailey’s Way, I open up about how daily movement has become a gentle anchor in my life with bipolar disorder. I shares real wins, honest setbacks, and what finally made exercise feel supportive instead of stressful. ??
Additionally, I bring the research I’ve done straight to you – what studies suggest about movement and mood for those of us with bipolar – translated into simple, take-action takeaways you can actually use.
Here’s what we’ll explore together:
- Why consistency over intensity works for me, and how I course-corrected after pushing too hard
- Simple, feel-good routines that actually fit a busy life
- How tracking mood and sleep is vital when starting an exercise routine
- Why avoiding over-exertion is necessary as it can tip into hypomania
- The real-life benefits I’ve noticed: fewer depressive dips, better sleep, clearer focus, and more confidence
If you’ve ever wanted exercise to feel doable, compassionate, and judgment-free, this conversation will help you build a routine that supports your mental health, right alongside therapy and medication.
Tune in now to Bipolar Disorder and Exercise: How Daily Movement Supports Mood and Stability and discover how small, steady steps can make a big difference.
Also found on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible, and YouTube.
Resources
Since we pivoted and did not talk about friendship this episode, here’s the link to Season 5, Episode 4: How to Cope with Losing Friends
Articles Sited in This Epsiode
- The Mental Health Benefits of Physical Exercise from VeryWellMind.com
- Exercise in Bipolar Patients: A Systematic Review found on ScienceDirect.com
- Physical Exercise for Treatment of Mood Disorders: A Critical Review from the National Library of Medicine
- Lifestyle interventions for bipolar disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis found on ScienceDirect.com
- Structured physical exercise for bipolar depression: an open-label, proof-of concept study from the National Library of Medicine
Additional Resources Discussed
- The Let Them Theory book by Mel Robbins – order your copy here
- Need a further understanding of bipolar disorder? Tune into Season 1, Episode2: Bipolar Disorder… What exactly is that?
- Throughout this episode, I touched on my own experiences of depression and how exercise has transformed that for me. If you’re interested in learning more about depression, tune into Season 3, Episode 11: This is What Depression Feels Like
- Need help establishing a good bedtime routine? Check out my article, The Bedtime Routine that Regulates My Sleep, to learn more about the importance of bedtime routines as well as how to establish one of your own that fits your lifestyle.
- I briefly touched on how I’ve started incorporating yoga into my weekly exercise routine, however I definitely promised I’d find an article to support my claim that yoga is good for mental health. Check out this article titled Yoga For Better Mental Health published by Harvard Medical School for more detailed information.
Class Pass
ClassPass is seriously one of my favorite ways to stay active without getting bored; it’s like having a golden ticket to try all kinds of workouts and wellness spots around town! With just one membership, you can bounce between yoga, spin, pilates, dance, strength training, and even book massages or saunas when you need a little self-care. The best part? You’re not tied down to just one gym, so it keeps things fun and fresh. If you’ve been wanting to shake up your routine (or finally find something you actually look forward to doing), give ClassPass a try through my link and see how much fun fitness can be!
Sign up for a trial & Receive 20 Bonus Credits: https://classpass.com/refer/JCEK58V11
60 Days Stronger Challenge
As mentioned in this episode, the 60 Days Stronger Challenge is a wellness challenge that I created to help me get back into a steady and healthy routine. It’s not your average fitness journey: it teaches you how sweat, self-discipline, and small but powerful goals totally shifted not just your physical health, but your overall mindset. If you’ve ever tried a fitness plan, lost steam, or felt your good intentions fade out, this challenge is exactly what you need to build healthy routines that stick, and actually transform your life. Check out this article to learn more, watch the video below and order your copy of the 60 Days Stronger Challenge Journal on Amazon.
Until next time friends… Take it easy, stay grateful and be joyful!
Meet your Host: Bailey Reber Thakore
At the age of 16, Bailey was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. For years, she struggled with not only managing her mental illness, but also with accepting it while the outside world around her did not. She started this podcast in order to help encourage others to seek any professional help they may need, especially in times of darkness. She hopes that being vulnerable on hard topics via Distressed to Joyful; Bailey’s Way will be a “beacon of light” for listeners who are currently struggling with similar situations. Additionally, she hopes to bring about new perspectives to those not directly affected by mental illness in order to help them understand the world with a kinder heart.
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