Ways Exercise Makes You Happier
You know that exercising is good for your body. It keeps you strong, boosts your immune system, and protects you from varying diseases. And most of all – it keeps your weight in check. But did you know that exercising is good for your well-being too? It in fact, it literally makes you happier.
Here are the top ways exercising makes you happier.
It releases happy chemicals in your brain.
Exercise boosts the release of dopamine – the “feel good” chemicals that play a role in happiness. This neurotransmitter is necessary for feelings of pleasure and happiness. Several studies have shown that as we age, we’re constantly losing our stores of dopamine, which is why we need to constantly seek out experiences that release this essential chemical. So wear your best pair of shoes and get ready to run… and be happy!
It replenishes your energy.
It’s normal – there are times when you are just too tired to exercise, or when working out is the last thing in the world you want to do. And when you’re lacking in energy, it’s really hard to be happy. But did you know that most of the time – getting your dose of sweat is all it takes to refuel your energy levels. No matter how exhausted you feel due to work and other issues, you must make time for exercise. It doesn’t have to be a strenuous workout routine. Brisk walking, cycling, gardening or swimming can be fun ways to work out and restore your energy.
It calms your body and alleviates anxiety.
If you suffer from anxiety, exercising may be a good remedy. Numerous studies have shown that exercising is a great strategy to ease anxiety. Researchers from the University of Vermont found that just a 20-minute exercise can keep you in good mood for 12 hours. The sudden boost in mood, followed by long-term improvement in well-being, is one of the greatest benefits of exercise. Its mood-enhancing effects are similar to that of meditation and talk therapy.
It fights stress.
Stress is one major barrier to happiness. If you are stressed, you tend to be moody, less optimistic, and less energetic, which all affect your happiness levels. Another way exercise makes you more cheery is that it eases your stress while improving your body’s defence line against stress. As your body produces more dopamine, your stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, are reduced.
It promotes good sleep.
How well your sleep last night was, has a major impact on your mood and well-being today. Staying active and exercising on a regular basis has been proven to boost sleep patterns, especially among those who suffer from insomnia. Not only does exercising improve your sleep, it also gives you a refreshed feeling the next day that makes you feel like doing anything. And all these equate to happiness!
So how much exercise is enough?
Health experts recommend 30-60 minutes, 3 to 5 days a week to gain the mental health benefits of exercising. In one Canadian study of walkers, a single daily 30-minute bout of exercise had greater mental health benefits than splitting it into three 10-minute sessions. And if you think only cardio exercises can bring ‘feel good’ effects, you’re wrong. Even strength training routines can boost your mood. It has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, and improve self-esteem. Other less intense, low-impact forms of exercise, like yoga and tai chi can also boost your happiness levels. Meanwhile, outdoor workouts provide a better boost in happiness than indoor workouts.
Are you done exercising today? If not yet, do it now. And be happier!
©Copyright 2013 by http://www.naturaltherapyforall.com Counselling Leeds All Rights Reserved.