When we are feeling stressed out and depressed, exercise is usually the first thing we put on the back burner. We make the excuses that we have no energy, are too tired, have too much other stuff to deal with, and think exercising is not as important, but here is where we are so wrong.
This is the time when exercising is most crucial! Exercising boosts the release of endorphins, a neurotransmitter released from the brain. Endorphins have been shown to have many positive effects on immunity as well as your mood. “Runner’s high” is the famous term given to runners who experience this positive effect of endorphin release. Although running is not the only way to experience this “high”, there is a whole list of cardio workouts here that will give you that same rush.
The exercises do not have to be intense to release these endorphins, moderate exercise will do the trick. It is classified as being “somewhat hard”, according to this description on MayoClinic’s site. “You can carry a conversation, yet cannot sing” is a clue that you are participating in moderate exercise. This level of moderate exercise has been proven in numerous studies to: reduce stress, protect against anxiety and feelings of depression, boost self-esteem, increase energy levels, and improve sleep.
It is suggested you get about 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week to reap the benefits. 150 minutes a week, comes out to be 22 minutes in a 7 day week. Now those of you who say you are too tired, too busy to fit in any exercise?! Well 22 minutes a day comes out to be about 1/65 of your 24 hour day, very doable if you ask me!
So get out there and reap the benefits of exercise! Jump on that NordicTrack treadmill, play a game of tennis, or simply go for a swim. All of these are going to release those endorphins!
You too can be happy like them!
Written By: Jentry
