Especially when Im in crisis, adding more vigorous exercise to my schedule helps the most. I was one of those people who never exercised-more the cerebral type. I actually scorned exercise when I was younger. For us mature folks, it really isn't optional for health reasons. In committing myself to vigorous exercise for health reasons, I discovered that vigorous exercise, or even regular walks helps more than anything with my bipolar.
For those of you like me who aren't the physical type, try water aerobics. Its the first exercise I ever liked enough to stick with. LA Fitness has a big program where in a big city you can try different locations, and therefore dif instructors who have very different styles. Water aerobics is not dorky, as I thought it was for years. Men do it too. No one can see your bulges or whatever because you are under water!!!!
Next time you are having an episode, try exercising and you'll see. It works like magic. I go regularly without fail at least twice a week. When I am having problems w my bipolar, I increase it to 6x a week. Try it. You'll be amazed that no one ever told you this.
Tho a leisurely walk can be helpful by just distracting you, what Im referring to is real aerobic exercise that churns out those endorphins and puts more oxygen in your blood. I get so angry that none of the so called professionals mention this and the importance of structure and routine, knowing your triggers, and avoiding toxic people. Love to you all!!!