Many of you might cringe when you hear about exercise because it’s been sold to you as a remedy for all ailments, and most importantly – extra pounds. Fit gym models market their bodies as something you should strive for, while yoga teachers stand on their heads and tell you this will make you truly happy. Well, guess what, it won’t. If you go into workout with a sole reason to look like someone else or do some tricks with your body, it simply won’t work. But if you start exercising because you want to feel better, you love your body, and you want to be healthy – then you’re on the right path. Here are 7 reasons why you need workout in your life.
You will feel better
Whatever is bugging you at the moment – boss, kids, relationships, or that extra cake you ate yesterday, it will all go away after you have a good sweaty workout. It’s easy to get used to workout because your body releases a whole bouquet of feel-good chemicals that improve your mood and add more balance to life. We have a whole chemical lab inside our bodies, so why not use it? Even half an hour of exercising will make your body release a hefty dose of endorphins that create a feeling of satisfaction and happiness. You will also look good as a bonus!
Stress will go away
Apart from enjoying a post-workout endorphin rush, your stress level will also reduce. Workout is a well-known stress buster, so if you want to keep your brain, mind, and your whole body healthy – opt for a peaceful, yet powerful session of yoga, go on a run once in a while, take dancing lessons, or enjoy some home exercises. Workout also boosts your body’s production of norepinephrine, which helps your brain cope with stress and stressful situations.
You will rest better
Workout is a great way to relax after a day at work. I mean it! You warm up, your blood flow improves, stress goes away, anxiety reduces, you get a spike of energy that will help you be more productive at home (even if it’s just making dinner and playing with your pet), and after all that your body relaxes and falls asleep without no effort at all. Morning workout can energize you for the whole day, while evening workout can become you go-to sleeping pill. Your body will get used to sound sleep and you will rest much better as a result.
It will boost your creativity
If you’re feeling stuck with a task, a problem, or a text to write and don’t know where to start, then a little workout will most definitely help you overcome the block. Think of it as a kind of productive procrastination that offers a way out. Go out for a walk in the park, do some push-ups, or go for a run if you have the time. This way you change the environment and take your mind off the problem, giving it time to process the task stress-free. Your brain powers get a healthy boost for at least a few hours after the workout.
You’ll become more confident
Whether you’ve been hitting the gym for just a few weeks or have been running for a month, it will definitely result in the increase of your self-love and confidence. When we feel great about ourselves – it shows! It’s the confidence and inner radiance that makes people beautiful no matter what size they are. And when you start feeling healthier, more agile, and strong, that confidence will rise even higher! It’s a win-win no matter how you look at it. Do exercise for yourself, not someone else, and it will make you incredibly happy.
You’ll go outside more
Exercising outside is the best thing in the world. If you choose jogging out in the open not only will you get all the necessary sunlight and fresh air, but you will also explore the streets, parks, and recreation areas you wouldn’t visit otherwise. Connecting with nature will greatly improve your mood and health as well. You can also go hiking, climbing, or swimming – depending on what’s nearby. You can partner up with your friends and go on exciting adventures together. And the more you walk, run, and see new things, the more alive you feel. It’s the best type of therapy!
It will boost your brain power
Have you ever heard about neurogenesis? It’s the formation of neurons in our brains. Previously scientists believed that once the brain was formed neurogenesis stopped and as we grew older our brain functions and cognitive capacity only got worse. It appears that’s not true! Neurogenesis does continue throughout our lives and one way to help your brain form neurons is to exercise! It’s especially important as we get older, our energy levels drop, and brains become fuzzier. If you want to be more alert, have better memory and cognitive functions in general – exercising is your go-to remedy.