We all know the importance of exercise for our physical health but are you aware of the wonders it can do for our mental health?
According to the NHS getting a regular dose of exercise can lower a person’s risk of depression by a third!
“If exercise were a pill, it would be one of the most cost-effective drugs ever invented,” Dr Nick Cavill, Health Promotion Consultant.
Let’s take a closer look at the concept of ‘only ever being one workout away from a good mood’…
When you exercise, your body releases feel-good chemicals such as endorphins, serotonin and dopamine which are responsible for happiness, pleasure and blocking pain. They trigger positive feelings, exhilaration and euphoria. This is why a good workout is known for being a mood booster and an anxiety calmer. It is also a great stress reliever which is important to point out as it is National Stress Awareness Month!
I find this to be one of the biggest benefits from exercising regularly. Dancing and Dance Fit provide escapism for me. When I am doing my routines, I am not thinking about anything else other than the moves. I get carried away singing along to the songs and don’t spare a thought for any stresses or worries I might have been over thinking beforehand.
Studies actually show exercise is a more powerful relaxation technique than traditional methods such as taking a bath!
Weight loss, fat loss and muscle gain are just a few of the rewards of exercise. These physical changes in your appearance can of course improve your confidence and self-esteem but results aside, getting into exercise can change your perception of yourself as a person. You may feel stronger, more determined, braver or more aware of your abilities.
One of the big contributing factors of unhappiness is loneliness. Joining a fitness class, group or club is a great way to meet new people.
I know in my classes there is a great social atmosphere and sense of community. You can make new friends and there’s this mutual feeling of ‘We’re in this together!’ which creates a great supportive energy. This energy also helps push you during your workout and spurs you on.
There really is no better time of the year to consider taking up more exercise to help you feel happier. We are now in Spring. The clocks have gone forward and the days are starting to get longer and the nights lighter. It’s not as cold as it was but it’s not got too warm yet. It’s so much easier to motivate yourself at this time of year!
So what are you waiting for?
