We all know that exercise has plenty of physical benefits, but we don’t always consider how it affects our mental health. There is a significant psychological component to physical activity, and it can benefit you even if you don’t usually like to exercise.
First of all, exercise can help if you have depression and anxiety. Exercise increases endorphin levels, which produces feelings of happiness and euphoria. It’s the reason why you always feel a little bit better after a hard workout. Many doctors even recommend a moderate exercise regimen before they prescribe medication for depression and anxiety.
Naturally, the increase in endorphin levels that come with even moderate exercise can help decrease stress. Increasing your heart rate through training also stimulates the production of neurohormones such as norepinephrine. These chemicals improve cognition and mood, even while stressful circumstances may cloud your thinking.
The physical changes that come with regular exercise can also boost your confidence and self-esteem. This happens slowly, but you might still find that your clothes fit better and that you can run uphill without getting winded before you start to notice any other physical changes. You’ll look and feel better, which is always good for your mental health.
Finally, regular exercise can help build your intelligence and improve your memory better than just about any other activity you can imagine. Studies have even shown that cardiovascular exercise creates new brain cells, which naturally enhances brain function. It also strengthens the hippocampus and prevents age-related memory loss, so it’s highly recommended for aging adults who are healthy enough for a regular exercise regimen.
Regular exercise is just as crucial for your mental health as it is for your physical health. It doesn’t take much training for you to have these benefits, either. Walking regularly or going on short jogs is enough, so you don’t have to worry if you don’t want to go to the gym for an intense daily workout.
We know that just getting up and gathering the energy to exercise is difficult on some days, but it is well worth your time to make an effort. You will feel better about yourself, even if you only engage in moderate exercise a few times a week.