Use Exercise to Calm Your Mind
Updated: Jun 16, 2022
You already know that exercise is good for your body, and we've touched upon the ways it can help you to feel better. Getting physical has a lot of benefits for your mind, and I'd like to address that topic today. Allow me to focus a bit more on the benefits of exercise for calming your mind.
Endorphins, known as the brain's happy chemicals, are released when you work out. These chemicals produce a euphoric feeling, and you can get them from even moderate exercise. Just a half hour of movement a few days a week is enough to release endorphins and boost energy and mood! For those who are prone to depression and anxiety, exercise has been known to produce some of the same brain chemicals as a prescription medication can.
Lessen Anxiety
Along with feeling happier through exercise, you can also gain a sense of calm. When you're feeling anxious or amped up, a workout session might do the trick to level out your mood. People with anxiety disorders have been shown to experience symptom relief through physical exertion.
Increase Relaxation
When you're feeling too hyped to sleep, an exercise session might be what you need to promote falling asleep more quickly and sleeping better. If improving sleep is your goal, the time of your workout matters. It's best to work out about five or six hours before your bedtime to improve sleep. Your body's core temperature will rise due to the physical activity. Then right before bed, it should drop to a temperature that helps to promote sleep.
Boost Energy
When you’re feeling low, a quick boost in energy can be what you need to alleviate your mood. A short stroll or quick session at the gym might just give you the shot of adrenaline and endorphins you need to get through the afternoon slump or to shake a blue mood. It can also give you the drive to be more productive and creative once you've cleared your head.
Reduce Stress
Another beneficial brain chemical released through exercise is norepinephrine, which is known to reduce the effects of stress and help you cope. This is great to know when you're already feeling stressed to the max. So, head to the gym when you feel like you're about to burst. You'll likely feel much better afterward.
Exercise is good for your body, mind, and soul. When you’re so overloaded you don’t feel like moving, push yourself to get out there and work out, knowing it may be just the medicine you need. Give it a try next time you need an outlet for tension. You might be surprised by the results!
Blessings & Love,
Ways we can work together:
Join my email list and get my FREE guide for a Life that Lights You UP!--Download my "8 Steps to Create a Life That Lights You UP!" Workbook
1:1 Private Coaching
Put Yourself First: How to Make Yourself a Priority (When No One Else Will!)
This is my vision for you & what is possible in 90 days...
Feeling confident & worthy in who you are and where you are going in life
You know what you want...by learning to dream again
Gain tools to help you overcome fear, anxiety, & stress
Spend more time in JOY
Create healthy boundaries that serve you & eliminate ones no longer serving you
Trusting yourself