Exercise has been scientifically proven on numerous occasions to improve overall mood, treat depression/anxiety, reduce stress, increase motivation, and build confidence. Whether its cardio, strength training, Yoga, HIIT, or even stretching, these effects have been observed within people who actively take part in moving their body to get the muscles working and get the heart pumping harder.
But how does exercise exactly do this?
When we begin working out, the heart begins to pump harder in order to bring more blood to the working muscles. This is turn results inj more blood being delivered to the brain and other key organs of the body. This alongside with the mental stimulation of working out begins reducing levels of stress hormones such as Adrenaline and Cortisol, and then stimulates the production of Endorphins (feel good hormones).
jThe body releases Endorphins which are chemicals that elevate mood and act as a natural painkiller for the human body. These amazing hormones act as analgesics, which means they diminish the perception of pain in the effort to help the heart calm down and lower heart rate levels back to normal, as well as relax muscular tissues reducing their activity back to a resting state. This results in reduced stress throughout the body as the perception of it has iminished and increases the perception of ‘Euphoria’. But perhaps the best thing about them is their ability to relax the entire body and improve mood as Endorphin levels stay elevated long after the workout has been completed.
Regular exercise of at least 30mins performed three times per week have been shown to keep Endorphin levels high within the body and result in greater longevity alongside with reduced risks of a range of different potential health concerns. For even better results, studies have found links that social workouts of more than 3 people greatly improve Endorphin levels and overall motivation in continuing exercise altogether as opposed to training by yourself.
Remember, any sort of exercise, as long as you do it consistently will benefit your mind and body. Choose to do something you enjoy, this could start off as a walk (one of the most under rated forms of exercise!) Doing something you enjoy means you will keep doing it and it then becomes a consistent behaviour.
So, what are you waiting for, get your friends or family together for a workout, or join a fitness club to reap the health benefits that endorphins provide for the body!
