We all know that exercise improves our physical health, but what about our mental health?
The levels of chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin, stress hormones, and endorphins (the feel good hormones!), change when you exercise. Our mental health affects how we think, feel and act, and helps determine how we handle what life throws at us.
Here are some of the ways exercise improves mental health:
- Sleeping better, which is important for recovery and being in a better mood. Regular exercise can improve sleep quality and increase the amount of deep sleep we get.
- Releases feel good hormones. Many have heard of the “runner’s high” – exercise releases endorphins in your body. This can be accompanied by a positive and energizing outlook on life.
- Improves confidence and self esteem. Working out can help you feel better about yourself, which can increase happiness.
- Better concentration and focus. In the short term, exercise can enhance concentration. Long term, it can also help to combat brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Reduces stress & anxiety. Exercise has been shown to be a natural anxiety reliever. You can feel more able to take on life’s tasks.
- Make new friends! Exercising in a group can reduce feelings of social isolation. When you surround yourself with positive people who have similar goals, you are more likely to stick with it, and have some fun friends to hang out with as well!
- Increases energy levels. If you sit on the couch all day, you feel blah. If you are active and moving around, it actually gives you more energy!
Are you looking to improve your mental health with exercise? We can help! Book your free No Sweat Intro to meet with a coach and talk about how we can help here.