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Work It Out

by | Mar 6, 2023

Exercise is a word that usually makes many people groan or roll their eyes when mentioned. This particular post will provide you with some more insight as to how exercise can truly be a benefit to you. Since the body and mind are so closely linked, when your body feels better so will your mind. Exercise doesn’t just impact our physical health, it can actually have a great impact on our mental health. 
 Exercise relieves tension and stress, boosts physical and mental energy as well as enhances an individual’s overall well-being through the release of endorphins. Endorphins are powerful chemicals in the brain that can energize you and boost your mood. Other chemicals in the brain that show a boost in levels immediately after a workout are dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. These chemicals have a positive affect on our mood and our ability to focus. Exercise also promotes change in the brain such as neural growth, reduced inflammation and new activity patterns that promote feelings of being calm.
Studies show that running for 15 minutes or walking for an hour each day reduces the risk of major depression by 26%. Adding mindfulness to the exercise, you can improve your physical condition faster as well as interrupt the flow of the constant thoughts or worry. Stay present during your physical activity, pay attention to the physical sensations in your joints, muscles, and your breathing. Outdoor activities such as hiking, sailing, mountain biking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and skiing have shown to help reduce symptoms of PTSD so why not get out there and try something new?
The activity doesn’t have to be strenuous, it can be as simple as going on a walk around the neighborhood each day, yoga at home, riding a bike, following a dance tutorial on YouTube, or whatever will get you active and bring you some joy. In the words of Nike, “Just Do It!”
Contributed by Tara Trickler

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