Exercise for a better lifestyle
The guide to getting exercise into your life permanently.
By: Saniya
Exercising does not only have physical benefits but also mental health benefits. Since exercising provides a better mental clarity and physical benefits with little to no cost, and very little time requirement, the importance of exercising cannot be understated. Though it can require effort to actually get up and begin exercising, once sufficiently motivated, exercising provides many benefits. Chemical processes like the release of endorphins in the brain which alleviate pain, decrease stress, and generally improve your mood.
Benefits of Exercising:
- Less stress and anxiety
One of the best things about exercise is that it takes your mind off things. Along with the release of endorphins, your body relaxes as you begin exercising.
2. Improved mood
Michael Otto, PhD, a professor of psychology at Boston University, says that “The link between exercise and mood is pretty strong,” Otto says. “Usually within five minutes after moderate exercise you get a mood-enhancement effect.” There is also strong evidence that exercising reduces long-term depression.
3. Sharper memory
The endorphins that are released result in a short term increase in a person’s focus and memory. Exercise also helps to prevent age related declines, like dementia and Alzheimer’s.
4. Higher self-esteem
Meeting goals and improving yourself can do wonders in improving a person’s confidence.
5. Better sleep
Exercising in the morning or afternoon can help regulate sleep patterns. Exercising closer to your bedtime can also promote sleep.
6. More energy
By exercising regularly, your heart rate too begins to increase during the times in which you are exercising. This results in more energy overall.
7. Fitting Exercise into your schedule:
It is important to remember that exercise is not just physical activity. Exercise is a planned and repetitive action. It cannot be a one-time thing. It is also important to remember that it is not necessary to go to a gym or do a serious and intense workout. Exercising is just about increasing your heart rate a bit.
While doing 30 minutes of exercise a day is ideal for the best mental health benefits, it is understandable if it doesn’t fit into someone’s busy schedule. Doing something is better than doing nothing. As such, a five or ten minute workout will result in better mental health, albeit a smaller one.
Here are some tips to get motivated:
- Start small.
If you haven’t exercised in a while, don’t beat yourself up if you don’t do as well as you had wanted. There’s a learning curve and with practice, you’ll get better.
2. Do activities you enjoy
Anything that makes you move is exercise, so don’t treat it as homework or a chore. Playing with your dog, jogging with friends, or even biking to get mail all counts.
3. Make it fun
Reward yourself when you meet goals and challenges. You can also make it a social activity by exercising with friends or family.
