The benefits that regular exercise has on physical health are well-known, and widely discussed but there are also incredible mental health benefits that working out offers. Aerobic exercise has been shown to reduce anxiety, depression and stress and increase positive self-esteem, mood and energy!
Improves self-esteem and mood
Research shows that exercise can significantly increase self-esteem and who couldn’t use a boost? Studies show that when you work out regularly, your mood improves and puts your mind in a more positive state. In the long term, keeping up a steady exercise regimen improves the way we feel about ourselves in general, mentally and physically. Not to mention the feelings of accomplishment and confidence that have been proven to accompany regular physical activity.
Reduces depression and anxiety
If that isn’t enough, extensive studies have been done to demonstrate how exercise eases symptoms of depression and anxiety. The feel-good endorphins and chemicals released during physical activity enhance your sense of well-being. Being active has also been shown to help take your mind off worries, further reducing the effects of depression and anxiety.
Boosts energy
Although it may sound counterintuitive, exercising actually increases energy. Although working out burns physical energy the chemicals linked to energy, mood and attention are boosted with exercise. So, even if it is the last thing you feel like doing, working out actually helps you feel less fatigued and more energized!