How The Emotional Benefits of Exercise Work

The emotional benefits of exercise are many. We know. We’ve heard things like this before.

• “I get such a rush from exercise”.
• “I feel so good after exercising”.
• “Exercising starts my day off the right way”.

When we often think about exercise, we think about the physical benefits. Getting physically fit. Building strength and endurance. Losing weight. These are all excellent reasons to want to start exercising. Have you thought about the emotional benefits of exercise and its ultimate effect on you? Let’s see how that works.

The Emotional Benefits Of Exercise

Improving your mood and mindset may just be some things you have noticed from your exercise practice. Do any of these emotions come to mind for you?

• feeling happy-even euphoric!
• confident
• less stressed
• empowered
• optimistic
• grateful

These are definitely a great result to have as a result of exercising. Today, we are going to dig a bit deeper into how these emotions result because of exercising. Learning about what happens from an emotional aspect because of exercise….and why it’s a good practice to keep going!

How Emotions Work With Exercise

In The Brain

When you exercise, science and psychology are both at work. In this article from WebMD they talk about endorphins. The naturally occurring chemicals we have in our body that begin circulating when we exercise and interact with the brain. These hormones (sometimes referred to as happy hormones) give us that “euphoric” feel after exercising. These happy hormones can also improve our mood and reduce our sense of anxiety.

Exercising With Others

Exercising in a community type environment can be positive as well. These are typically people who enjoy exercise classes, team sports, or even just having a friend to exercise with. It gives a sense of community and the enjoyment of being part of a group. A “family” type atmosphere. Having a friend to exercise with. Someone you can catchup with socially and be accountable too. You don’t feel like you are alone and look forward to the interaction and the good feelings you get from that.

Improves Concentration

By getting “away from it all” can get your mind on something else for awhile. It gives your brain a break from other aspects of your life. The act of exercising can give you something else to concentrate on. You can come back later with a new fresh perspective and approach it in a calmer and less stressed way.

Builds Self Confidence and Empowerment

When you finish exercise and are on that “euphoric high”, you have the feeling that you can do anything and nothing is going to stop you. You begin to feel that sense of self-confidence and your self-esteem is through the roof. Exercise is a powerful tool for that.

Just Get Started

As is often said, “the hardest part is just getting started”. The thing about it is, it doesn’t have to be a long period of time. I am a firm believer is just opening the door and walking outside. You only have to start gradually and you can see the emotional effects soon afterward! You may like to check out my article on starting up an easy walking program here.

Whatever you do, do what you enjoy! You want something that will last. Think outside the box if need be. If you get bored, change things up. Doing the same thing day in and day out can become tedious. Have a plan B. You might even switch off between Plan A & B! Make sure it’s on your schedule to do and commit. Positive emotions are such an important part of staying motivated. Be sure to make it and yourself a priority. It’ll be worth it in the long run!