Women’s Day 2023 this year was an empowering moment for Actor and Miss Asia Akanksha Singh. The actor, known for her roles in various films and TV shows, took on a unique challenge ahead of Women’s Day 2023 in Hyderabad. Singh embarked on a non-stop 10-hour treadmill challenge at Inorbit Mall Ground Floor to raise awareness about mental health and promote the benefits of fitness in fighting depression and other mental illnesses.
The event aimed to encourage people to prioritize their mental health and take care of themselves through exercise. Singh hopes to inspire people to fight depression and promote the benefits of fitness. She shared that she saw the impact of depression on a loved one in her own family, which motivated her to raise awareness about this critical issue.
The 10-hour treadmill challenge received support from various influential people, including Hyderabad’s First woman Dy. Commissioner of Police (DCP) of Hyderabad’s IT hub, K Shilpa Valli, who attended the event to extend her support. Mr Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary of the Industries & Commerce (I&C) and Information Technology (IT) Departments of the Telangana government, also extended his wishes to Akanksha Singh for her successful and significant feat.
Research has found a well-established link between physical fitness and mental health, including depression. Regular exercise can have a positive impact on symptoms of depression, reducing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and fatigue. Exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. It also increases the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters important for regulating mood.
Singh believes that fitness and mental well-being go hand in hand, and she used this platform to raise awareness about this crucial issue. Through this event, she hopes to inspire people to take care of themselves and their loved ones by promoting the benefits of fitness for mental health.
During the 10-hour treadmill challenge, Akanksha Singh shared her insights on managing depression. She prioritized self-care activities like meditation, yoga, and taking a relaxing bath, engaging in physical activity regularly, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, seeking social support from friends, family, or a support group, and being kind to oneself.
By taking and finishing the 10 hour treadmill challenge, Akanksha Singh hopes to raise awareness about the benefits of fitness for mental illnesses and inspire people to take care of themselves. Her dedication to this cause is a testament to the power of women and the importance of prioritizing both physical and mental health. As an actor, Akanksha is a role model for young girls who aspire to achieve their goals and prioritize their well-being.
Women’s Day 2023: Akanksha Singh on 10 Hour Treadmill ahead of Women’s Day gets applause from leading personalities
“I believe that fitness and mental well-being go hand in hand, and I am using this platform to raise awareness about this important issue. Having seen the impact of depression on a loved one in my own family, I know firsthand how crucial it is to prioritize our mental health and fight depression that you might encounter. Through this event, I hope to inspire people to take care of themselves and their loved ones by promoting the benefits of fitness for mental health.” Akanksha Singh said after completing the 11 hour treadmill challenge.
“I’m proud to support this event and the message it sends. By promoting the benefits of fitness for mental health, we can help create a more resilient and healthier society.” said K Shilpa Valli, First woman Dy. Commissioner of Police (DCP) of Hyderabad’s IT hub Hyderabad who attended the event to extend her support to Akanksha’s unique initiative ahead of Women’s Day 2023.
In a message , Mr Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary of the Industries & Commerce (I&C) and Information Technology (IT) Departments of the Telangana government extended his wishes to Akanksha Singh for a successful and a very important feat. He said, while mental health has its ups and down it is possible to take control of it through fitness and keeping one’s body agile. I urge everyone to practice some physical activity in their daily life and keep fit both mentally and physically.
Dr. Shanta Thoutam, Chief Innovation Officer, T-Hub Foundation, who came to cheer Akanksha, said taking care of one’s mental health is need of the hour.
There are several possible explanations for the connection between fitness and depression. One is that exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Exercise also increases the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters that are important for regulating mood.
Additionally, exercise can help reduce the negative effects of stress, which can be a contributing factor to depression. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem, which can improve overall well-being.
On the other hand, a lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of depression. People who are less active may be more likely to experience feelings of stress, anxiety, and isolation, which can lead to depression.
It is important to note that while exercise can be an effective tool in managing symptoms of depression, it should not be seen as a replacement for professional treatment. People with depression should work with a healthcare professional to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their unique needs.