It’s no surprise that exercise is good for us, but many people still choose the couch over the gym. When you think of exercise, what comes to mind? The best physical shape of your life, or some guy with big veins pumping iron? What should come to mind is the best mental state of your life. Yes, working out contributes to mental health and will ultimately impact your life in more than just an aesthetic way. Here are a few reasons to start exercising and improve your mental health!
1. Reduce Stress
Yes, it’s true! Putting your body through stress from working out can actually reduce your stress levels. Exercise causes your body to go through the same stress response you usually experience, but is actually beneficial because it uses the by-products of stress, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure. Exercise can also be an effective distraction technique. If you’ve hit a road block and can’t get a big project or task done, step away and get your heart rate up with any physical activity and you’ll be surprised how refreshed and more motivated you feel.
2. Increase happy brain chemicals
Have you ever heard of a runners high? This is a perfect example of how exercising releases feel-good chemicals to the brain. Studies show that exercising increases the release of norepinephrine to the brain. This is especially significant because 50 percent of norepinephrine is produced in a part of the brain that is responsible for emotional and stress responses.
3. Lasting cognitive performance
A body in motion stays in motion they say, but what about a mind in motion stays in motion? According to many studies, staying continuously active throughout your life can have a strong impact on the aging of your brain. As the human body begins to age, so does the brain, therefore incorporating exercise into adulthood reduces the chance of Alzheimers and ultimately improves cognitive function.
4. Reduce anxiety
In today’s society more and more adults struggle with anxiety. Research shows that any form of exercise helps those who struggle with anxiety and even acts as a natural form of medicine. Even a short walk can help bring your mood up and your body will be more likely to fight off anxiety and depression.
Exercising is essential to a strong and healthy mind. As someone who constantly deals with stress and even anxiety from time to time I know just how important it is. Exercising has never let me down and always seems to get me through tough times. Whether you’re going for a walk, hitting the gym, or my personal favorite, pilates, your mind will reap the benefits.
The Inward Journey 