We already know that exercise is good for your body, but did you know how good it is for your mind too?
Exercising regularly (whether that is a group exercise class, a stroll in the countryside or lifting weights) has many benefits that are not just about your physical health and fitness.
The sense of well-being you get from a good workout can help you feel more energetic throughout the day and give you a better night’s sleep by making you feel tired at the end of the day. By regulating your sleep pattern, you will be able to take on the next day’s events with a better frame of mind.
Physical activity releases feel good hormones that make you feel better in yourself and give you more energy. The happier moods help shine a positive light on situations and help you take better control of things in your life. Doing a form of exercise that you enjoy has the benefit of taking your mind off other matters too, while you have some fun and some well-earned time out.
Exercise is often used as a technique to help combat stress. Doing something physical releases cortisol which will help you deal with stressful situations. Managing stress is not only a positive for your mental health but will help keep tabs on blood pressure and other physical aspects.
The social side of exercise is just as important. Whether you catch up with a friend for a walk or see people from across the studio for a class, seeing and interacting with like-minded people can help you to feel better about yourself and boost your self-esteem. Having someone to workout with can help you stay accountable, meet your goals quicker and in turn aid you in achieving what you set out to do.
Take some ‘me time’ and schedule in time in your diary to look after your mental health.
