Happy Wednesday folks!
Hope you all had a great weekend and hope to see some off you for support group today. Our topics will be: "Reading Labels" and "Diet and Exercise."
Today we thought we'd discuss the importance of exercise and how it can lead folks to achieve a higher standard of happiness. The diagram below explains some very important neurotransmitters involved in the process of exercise but it doesn't stop there!
Exercise increases endorphins and other feel-good chemicals in the brain which can ultimately reduce levels of stress hormones, cortisol, and adrenaline in the body. Frequent exercise has also been proven to be a natural remedy for both depression and anxiety.
People who exercise for 30 to 60 minutes three to five days a week get mental health benefits, but even less may help you feel good. Some researchers even say that a short stroll can improve a mood. When exercising, keep in mind not to focus on just one method. It's not all about cardio, even though strength training is shown to reduce depression and anxiety and improve self-esteem, Yoga and Tai Chi relaxes the mind and body and relieves stress.
A decrease in depression, anger, and tension has been found when exercising outdoors. It is best, when exercising outdoors, to walk in a group because group walks in a natural setting de-stresses us more than strolls in urban environments. In comparison, indoor workouts will help with mental health but, outdoor fitness makes us feel more revitalized, energetic, and engaged. Also, some researchers even say that moderate intensity strength training made people feel happier than low and high intensity weight lifting, but everyone's body is different so pick whats best for you and stick to it!
