Physical activity benefits your body as well as your mind. Among the many benefits of exercising, here are a few you may not have thought of and could lead to a healthier and happier you.
EXERCISE HELPS WITH DEPRESSION & ANXIETY
Researchers have found that just 30 minutes of light to moderate exercise will help with symptoms of major depression, and may be just as effective as medication!
Exercise can also help with your anxiety. Physical activity can reflect the same physical reactions as a panic attack (sweating, increased breathing, elevated heart rate), so regular exercise will help the body normalize those sensations and teach the brain to associate those reactions with safety instead of danger.
EXERCISE HELPS YOU TO RELAX & GET MORE SLEEP
It has been shown that people who exercise get better sleep than those who don’t. The National Sleep Foundation actually recommends exercise to treat chronic insomnia.
EXERCISE HELPS KEEP YOUR BODY REGULAR
Yes, you heard that right! This problem has become more and more common from lack of exercise, and the consumption of processed/unhealthy foods. The American Gastroenterological Association recommends exercise for the treatment of chronic constipation.
Even simple tasks such as walking, biking, or yard work can aid in keeping you stay regular. Our bodies tend to hold tension without us realizing it. The US Department of Health recommends yoga, meditation, and massage to relieve stress and improve bowel function.
EXERCISE HELPS YOU TO GET MORE THINGS DONE
As we age, our brains produce less and less brain cells. Exercising can help fight this process by increasing the growth and development of your brain cells. This leads to improved memory and improved cognitive function, according to studies.
Physical activity doesn’t just keep us healthy and looking good. It keeps our blood pumping to the brain, leading to more effective focus. It activates the memory part of your brain so you’re able to soak up information more quickly. It also puts you in a good mood, which is a MUST for our work environment.
EXERCISE HELPS WITH BOOSTING YOUR SELF ESTEEM
Physical activity has been shown to improve your self esteem, self acceptance, self concept, and self efficacy. So get to moving and boost that confidence!
BOTTOM LINE
Now that you know even more benefits of physical activity, get to moving for a healthier and happier you.
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