R U Mentally
Fit?
Exercise has a lot of benefits. Not only can it help you get in
shape, it can also help you manage stress, fight the blues and improve
your
self esteem. As Mary J. Blige said in an interview about exercise
"I want to look better…and it’s making me feel
better." Here’s how:
Stress management
We all have problems and difficulties that stress us out. It might
be a big exam, a little sister who reads your diary or an argument
with your best friend. Exercise is a great way to take your mind
off of problems, especially when the frustrating events are about
to make you lose your cool. Exercise can relax your muscles, raise
your heart rate and clear your mind. This combination leads to feeling
more focused and alert, which can make you feel better equipped
to cope with stressful situations. After your mind is clear and
you’re feeling focused and relaxed, the brainpower that you
would have used being stressed-out can instead be used to help you
think of new and creative solutions to problems.
Powerful
blues fighter
There has been a lot of research on the link between exercise and
depression and many studies have found that exercise can be an effective
treatment for depression. No one really knows how this works, but
scientists believe exercise increases the amount of seratonin and
endorphins in the brain. These two chemicals are associated with
improved mood.
Although not everyone has experienced diagnosable
depression, all of us have gotten the "blues" at one time
or another. If you believe you are experiencing serious depression,
you should talk to your doctor. If you find yourself with a mild
case of the blues, regular exercise can be a great way to reduce
those sad feelings and increase your energy level. So when you’re
feeling down, instead of going for a nap or a sundae, shake it like
a Polaroid!
Improved
self esteem
When you stick to an exercise routine and begin to tone, firm and
have greater cardiovascular endurance, you will feel more confident,
physically stronger and proud of yourself for sticking to your regimen.
Feeling good about yourself is one of the most important benefits
that exercise and a healthy lifestyle can offer. When you are confident,
healthy and strong you feel as if you can conquer the world…And
you can! |
