By Jaime Koenig
Do you ever feel like some days you wake up full of energy and then other days it takes everything you’ve got to get out of bed? It’s like your brain is saying, “Meh, I don’t feel like it today,” and frustratingly lists off all the reasons why you should laze about and not do anything.
How can you change this?
Exercise, my friends.
It’s normal to have bad days that stunt your motivation here and there … heck, 2020 was a whole year of bad days for some! But the difference is - are you going to stay in bed and feel sorry for yourself or are you going to move your butt out of that bed and change the way you feel? A little exercising to get your blood pumping can help with that.
Physical AND Mental Benefits
As you know, getting your sweat on has physical benefits such as lowering blood pressure, reducing the risk of diabetes, keeping weight under control, etc. But, aside from the physical benefits, the mental benefits are also a great many.
Laying in your bed and scrolling through TikTok or Instagram is not going to make you feel better. Wallowing with ice cream and your new Netflix series may help for a short bit, but taking a break to do even a short workout could increase your mood immensely. I know that sometimes we all need some extra rest or to just let our hearts recharge but I am here to tell you that getting up and going to the gym is going to be the thing that helps you feel better and gets your mind right. We’ve all got goals and laying around your house isn’t going to get you there any faster!
Endorphins FTW
Exercise has a huge impact on your brain health! When you get moving, your body releases natural chemicals called endorphins. These little guys are produced by your body and send “happy” signals to your brain to relieve stress and anxiety. How incredible is that? Not only does exercising release endorphins which can instantly change your mood, but it also prevents depression, alleviates brain fog, lowers blood pressure, and so much more. And to top it off, it improves self-esteem and cognitive function!
What You Can Do
It’s easy to get into a slump, but we believe you can get out of it with the right kind of support! Try finding a group of friends to work out with you. Join a fitness class. Find a YouTuber who creates dance tutorials that make working out fun. MadFit is a great channel to try!
No matter what you try, make it something you like to do. There is nothing more boring and tiresome than working out in a way that doesn’t fit your style. Find joy in what you are doing, otherwise, you’ll never want to do it!
Sometimes even treating yourself to new workout clothes and gear can inspire you to get started. This Lifting the Dream Majestic Unicorn Glute Band may add a little spark of excitement to your routine, but if you’d prefer something else there are all kinds of designs here to choose from.
So, the next time you're feeling stressed or sad, try to roll off that couch or out of your bed and simply start by taking a walk. A little physical activity can help in a big way. You’ve got this!
How has exercising helped with your mental health?
If you have any questions or you would like to be a guest blogger, please email us at hello@liftingthedream.com
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