The role of physical and sports activities in enhancing mental health and personal well-being: a field study on university professors

Abstract

Purpose. The study aims to highlight the multifaceted psychological and emotional benefits derived from regular physical activity, which go beyond mere physical advantages. This paper seeks to provide an understanding of how sports contribute to achieving psychological equilibrium and overall personal welfare.

Results. The research findings indicate that engaging in sports stimulates the production of happiness-inducing chemicals such as endorphins and dopamine, which result in improved mood, heightened happiness, and mental relaxation. This, in turn, leads to a noticeable reduction in stress and anxiety levels. Additionally, consistent physical activity is shown to improve sleep quality, which further promotes favourable mental and psychological well-being. The study also reveals that sports boost self-assurance and self-worth by allowing individuals to achieve personal goals and overcome athletic challenges, thereby fostering a sense of accomplishment and pride. Moreover, participation in team sports enhances social engagement and a sense of inclusion, reducing feelings of loneliness and facilitating the formation of positive social connections. Furthermore, sports are found to improve focus and attention, thereby positively impacting academic or professional performance. The research also underscores the role of physical activity in improving cognitive processes through increased cerebral blood flow.

Scientific novelty. This paper presents a new perspective on the comprehensive benefits of sports, emphasising the psychological and emotional dimensions that are often overlooked in favour of physical health. The study provides new insights into how sports function as a powerful tool for self-expression and stress alleviation, highlighting the mental relaxation and contentment that follow physical exertion. By exploring the connection between physical activity and the cultivation of a positive life outlook, this research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the holistic benefits of sports.

Practical value. The practical implications of this study are substantial, as it underscores the importance of integrating physical activity into daily routines to promote holistic mental and physical well-being. The findings support the promotion of sports as a crucial element of a balanced and healthy lifestyle, especially in a society increasingly characterised by psychological demands and daily stress. By recognising the broader impact of sports on mental health, policymakers, educators, and healthcare providers can better encourage physical activity as a means to enhance overall well-being.