5 Reasons To Fall In Love With Exercise
The days of summer are over; this is the time you want to get out!
Is your resolution to get fit this fall? What if you hate exercise?
I have got 5 reasons to make you fall in love with exercise.
1. Improves Sleep Quality
The latest research shows that exercise is a natural remedy for insomnia and sleep complaints. The impact of aerobic workouts on sleep has been found to be similar to those resulting from the use of sleeping pills. Research has established the connection between physical activity and the relief of specific sleep disorders like insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep apnea. Additionally, intermediary forms of exercising have been noted to enhance the quality of sleep for individuals who have been suffering from insomnia. It was found out that individuals who had been previously diagnosed as insomnia patients and had exercised half an hour thrice per week for eight weeks reported greater improvement in sleep quality. If you start working out today, you might sleep better tonight. Even if you don’t feel great tomorrow, stick with it for a few days. In about a week, you’ll likely see improvements in your sleep.
2. Enhances Creativity
If you exercise frequently, there is a high chance that you are more creative. Studies suggest that those who exercise are better at creative thinking and learning new skills. As a creative, I birth most of my ideas walking to the gym in the early hours of the morning and while resting between sets. A mentor of mine who inspired me on my fitness journey once revealed to me that he gets his ideas while running on the treadmill. Ryan Holmes, the Canadian computer programmer and entrepreneur, revealed in an interview that after a jog, or yoga, he always comes back with more clarity and focus. Stepping away from our workstations for a stretch or walk and coming back refreshed could impact our creative decisions. Exercise no doubt helps us stay focused so walk those miles instead of taking a cab and see what it does for you.
3. Promotes Social Interaction
Exercise gives you the opportunity to connect and interact with others. It is a great way to make friends. Think about it, just jogging or taking a walk with your dog allows you to strike up meaningful conversations that could potentially lead to lasting friendships while at the same time, improving your well-being. I often found it hard to make friends, but that was in the past. I have made a lot of friends and acquaintances at the gym. People meet their partners through running clubs. According to AboutKidsHealth, exercise helps keep our body healthy and strong. It also boosts our mental health by reducing feelings of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Even just playing outside with friends and setting non-academic goals can help the brain reset, making it easier to focus on schoolwork later.
4. Good for Mental Health
Exercises like jogging, swimming, cycling, and walking can greatly reduce stress. They release hormones known as endorphins that make you feel more cheerful and less stressed. Just a walk around the neighbourhood or going out of the house can help to reduce anxiety and improve your mood. For instance, a 20-minute walk can help you get rid of the fog in your head and improve your day. Exercise also enhances self-esteem since it decreases anxiety, depression, and negative moods. It also involves the use of several muscles, strengthens bones and has positive effects on the mental health of an individual.
5. Great for the Muscles, Bones, and Joints
It may sound quite mundane, but walking is one of the most effective exercises for your body and your mind. It doesn’t matter if it is a slow walk or a brisk one, it helps to tone up the muscles of the legs, abdomen and back. It is something to consider. It also helps in increasing bone mass and thus preventing osteoporosis. Low-impact activities such as walking or swimming are especially beneficial to your joints, thus suitable for people of all ages and physical abilities. A little amount of exercise is helpful in reducing joint pain and preventing obesity. So, when arthritis or stiffness wants to slow you down, you should know that a walk can be much less painful—and much more helpful—than a marathon.
