We all get so caught up in the physical benefits of exercise that we can lose sight of the mental and emotional benefits of fitness. You might be worried about weight loss, increased energy, muscle strength, or brain health. Surely the physical benefits of exercise are important and help us stay healthy, but what about the mental benefits of exercise? For many, the emotional and mental benefits of exercise can even outweigh the physical benefits.
I am going to share with you the top psychological benefits of exercise that will leave you eager to workout and on the way to feeling like your best self.
Benefit #1: Helps Depression and Anxiety
Working out is scientifically proven to boost your mood and increase happiness. A great mental benefit of exercising is that it releases chemicals called endorphins, which are known to reduce depression and increase a state of “euphoria”.
Exercising outdoors, such as hiking, biking, or running, also increases the production of endorphins and can lead your mind into a calm and satisfied state.
Even if you do not exercise daily, a simple walk a few times a week can significantly improve depression and anxiety.
Benefit #2: Sharper Memory
The same endorphins that decrease depression and anxiety also help you focus and feel mentally sharper throughout the day. This is a major psychological benefit of exercise because it can help you in other aspects of your life such as work, personal projects, and even the focus and attention you bring to your family life.
Exercise also contributes to the growth of new brain cells and keeps the body young and healthy.
Benefit #3: Reduced Stress
A key emotional and mental benefit of exercise is its ability to reduce stress. When you are feeling overwhelmed or nervous, exercising can release certain stress chemicals that can make you happier.
True Fitness states that by putting your body under physical stress regularly, you teach your body how to adapt and recover from stress physically and mentally. This could mean heading to the gym, joining a fitness class, going on a daily run, or an easy and convenient every day workout app.
Benefit #4: Better Sleep
If you have trouble sleeping through the night, one of the best psychological benefits of exercise is how it helps one sleep. Since your body needs to recover after you exercise, it makes your brain more tired, which will help you sleep better during the night.
And a good night’s sleep will boost your mental health and make you happier throughout the day.
Benefit #5: Increased Self-confidence
Exercising enables you to achieve all your physical goals from weight loss, improving endurance, and muscle tone. But the most important emotional and mental benefit of exercise is how it boosts your ego and self-esteem.
By obtaining a more fit physique, it’s likely you will feel happier in your own body than you ever have before. Exercising increases your sense of self-worth and self-image, boosting your confidence in your everyday life.
It is time for you to take control of your own happiness and bring exercise into your daily lives. Take the first step – try my 20 minute full body home workout and see how you feel. Then, take the next step: join SloaneSquad today to get into the best shape of your life and feel the best you ever have!
