Those who suffer from arthritis are advised to keep moving in ways that gently mobilize the whole body without creating stress on the joints. The high-impact aerobic workouts of a few decades ago have evolved into exercise methods that are much more attuned to good body mechanics.

What has also evolved is a greater understanding of how exercise affects the brain, our endocrine system, and consequently our moods and emotions. Regular exercise improves our memory and our ability to learn, as well as supporting our ability to solve problems. It stimulates the pituitary to release endorphins which reduce stress and pain. A study at Mayo Clinic has shown that endorphins help to lessen the symptoms of depression.

Exercise also raises the threshold tolerance to stress hormones such as cortisol, thus making you more capable of dealing with stress. Exercise also helps to delay age-related memory loss, promoting new growth in the brain's hippocampus. It also stimulates the release of serotonin, the neurotransmitter that antidepressant medications endeavor to mimic.

Oftentimes depression results in the lack of motivation to get involved in any kind of activity, so just getting started is the first challenge. Taking an exercise or yoga class, or joining a group that walks together has the added benefit of bringing positive social interaction into your life. A wide social network is very important in dealing with depression, so group activities have a double gain by benefitting both body and mind.