How Working Out Will Change Your Mood

Confession: I am NOT an exercise addict.

I like working out but I am not a gym rat. I like accidental exercise. I like walking up a mountain and back to see a castle and accidentally burning a million calories. OK not a million, but it had to be close!!

I like taking the stairs, parking far away from the door at a shopping mall. I like to move, but geez, it takes a lot of time to drive to a gym, figure out what to wear (um yes, it matters), get to a class on time (because if I try to do it myself it will be a lot less effective) and do it regularly with my crazy schedule.

But you know what? I make it priority at least three days a week, four or five if you catch me on a good week! Being an entrepreneur with small children, insisting on cooking whole foods, traveling and pretty much taking over the world on a weekly basis makes it difficult BUT…

I am worth it.

I need exercise and my body is happy with me when I make that time to respect the only place my soul will live for now. I am always glad when I squeeze in time to detox my body, sweat and build muscle. Even though my muscles can be sore, my mind is so much more relaxed when I include exercise as an important part of my routine like hot tea or brushing my teeth.

Not only does working out make you look good but it can also make you feel good. Exercise releases endorphins which trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine. For example, the feeling that follows a workout or a run is often described as “euphoric.” That feeling, known as a “runner’s high,” can be accompanied by a positive and energizing outlook on life.

Regular exercise has been proven to:

• Reduce stress
• Ward off anxiety and feelings of depression
• Boost self-esteem
• Improve sleep

Exercise also has these added health benefits:

• It strengthens your heart.
• It increases energy levels.
• It lowers blood pressure.
• It improves muscle tone and strength.
• It strengthens and builds bones.
• It helps reduce body fat.
• It makes you look fit and healthy.

So the next time you are questioning whether or not to make the time in your busy schedule to get the exercise your body desperately needs, remember you will be more productive and energetic in every area of your life with a strong healthy body and a happy disposition.

Now will I see you at the gym tomorrow?

XO

Laura