Regular exercise is important for the body and mind. We know this, but we don’t always feel like doing it.
So why should we change how we feel about exercise?
Feeling better about ourselves starts in the mind. If we don’t have the motivation or inclination to do anything, we risk falling deeper into the trap of apathy which leads to depression and even less inclination and motivation. This is often why exercise for beginners can seem daunting, so they may think, ‘what’s the point?’
This spiral continues to go downwards, affecting how our body looks, feels, and works.
Top Reasons to Exercise Include:
Stress Relief
Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, which then sends messages throughout your body telling it to feel happy. And then you feel happy.
You Sleep Better
An increase in activity can help to better regulate your sleep patterns. Our bodies need a decent amount of sleep to recharge and repair. A better night’s sleep means better mood, better concentration, better overall wellbeing.
Increased Libido
When you feel better about yourself, you want to show it off. Enough said!
Improvement in Mood
Let’s look at the previous points on this list. Less stress, better sleep, more sex. Really, how could your mood not improve, I ask you?
Increase in Energy and Stamina
The more activity your body does, the more it wants to do. The more you do, the easier it comes. This is a cycle of improvement that is ongoing.
Improvement in Concentration
With better sleep, your brain can better concentrate on the tasks at hand.
Reduces Cholesterol Levels
There are two types of cholesterol; the ‘good’ High-Density Lipoprotein (HPL) and the ‘bad’ (grrrr!) Low-Density Lipoprotein. These LDLs are the ones that transport fat molecules all around your body.
Fat then builds up in the arteries which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes occurring.
Taking regular exercise increases the good HDL and lowers the bad LDL. Team it up with healthier eating and cholesterol levels decrease considerably.
Decreases Risks of Developing Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes
Your heart is a muscle.
Muscles get stronger the more they work and the better you look after them.
Look after your heart, make it stronger, and look after it, and your chance of developing cardiovascular disease lowers.
Reduces Blood Pressure
Combining an increase in physical activity along with a healthy diet means your muscle cells use insulin and glucose more effectively. As your body is more sensitive to insulin, it avoids any insulin resistance from occurring, hence decreasing your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Increases Self-esteem and Confidence
Self-esteem is often linked to body confidence. As your body becomes healthier, stronger, and fitter, you notice the results the new levels of activity have on your physical shape. This changes how you hold yourself, your posture, and your overall confidence.
There are far more reasons to exercise but these should give you enough motivation to begin.
Start today and you will see the benefits sooner than you expect!
