Benefits of Exercise for Mind and Mood!
After a workout, you experience a surge in endorphins, chemicals released in your brain that make you feel happy and more energetic. By working out regularly, you can achieve this post-workout "high" more often.
While many people focus solely on the physical health benefits of exercise, it's also important to understand the effects on emotional health. Exercise has a plethora of positive side effects that help you not only physically, but also mentally.
How Does Exercise Impact Mood?
Exercise can improve mood and overall mental health. In other words, regular exercise leads to an increase in endorphins—the "feel-good" hormones released by your brain following exercise. Endorphins are responsible for a boost in mood and can also help reduce pain perception. Because of this relationship, research shows that exercise can improve mood and overall mental health. Being physically active can help reduce symptoms of worry and sadness and improve self-esteem and cognitive function. These benefits have a positive domino effect on the rest of your body as well: A better mood has also been shown to lead to other improvements like better sleep and the ability to manage stress.
You've probably experienced how being stressed or worn out can also lead to a lower mood and poor sleep. The good news is that exercise may be able to help with both sets of circumstances.
Tips for Reaping the Benefits of Exercise on Your Mood
You don't have to spend hours in the gym or do intense lengthy workouts to experience the widespread health benefits of exercise -- especially for its positive impact on mood. No matter your abilities or limitations, the most important thing to do is get started. Choose a workout type you enjoy so you are more likely to want to do it consistently and try to incorporate a variety of activities that utilize the whole body and energy systems.
Start wherever you feel comfortable, and over time gradually work up to longer or more intense exercise workout routines that support your individual health and goals. It's important to remember that little movements add up. Simply being more intentional to move your body with things like housework, taking the stairs, and going on daily walks can make a big difference in your physical and mental well-being.
How to Benefit from Exercise?
When it comes to improving your mood, there isn't one "best workout." Exercise is individualized, and all types have a benefit. You can learn more about specific types of exercise that help overcome low mood issues or explore tips for building and maintaining an effective exercise routine. Remember, the best thing is just to get moving!
You’re an individual and at KayKon we believe you should have a customized Personalized Wellness Plan created just for you based on your goals and current health conditions. If you’re interested in taking back control of your health and living a life full of energy, vitality, and wellness we urge you to book an initial 15min consultation today!
In Good Health
The Kaykon Team