Mindfulness & Exercise

It is no secret that exercise is great for your physical health. Exercise can improve heart health, blood pressure and can prevent osteoporosis as well as many other things. However what is not spoken about is the huge benefits exercise has on our mental health and wellbeing. Here are all the reasons why you should get active and improve your overall wellness.

Endorphins

Finding the motivation to get up and get active is the hardest part of exercising. Especially now when we lead such busy lives. However, have you heard of people getting ‘runner’s high’ or getting ‘addictive’ to the gym. This is because exercise releases chemicals to the brain – happy chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins also interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain. This feeling of euphoria after a good workout can get addictive and why so many people enjoy exercising so much

Benefits of Exercise

• Better nights sleep
• Improved self esteem
• Increased energy levels
• Strengthens bone and heart health
• Reduces body fat

How Exercise Can Improve Your Mental Health

So we have already spoken about how endorphins impact your brain and make you feel happier. But there are other ways how exercise can improve your mental health. Joining a sports team or a gym like Crossfit can make you feel like a part of a community, which is essential in a human beings happiness as they feel like they have social support. Exercise has also proven to reduce stress, as it is a time of day that you are completely focuses on the exercise or sport you’re undertaking. This can help prevent feelings of depression and anxiety. Even going a long walk in the sunshine can improve your overall wellbeing.