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5 Mental Health Benefits of Exercise

Sometimes, we go through the days and the weeks pushing, pushing and pushing, recognizing that we're getting things done, but somehow - something feels like it's missing. Somehow, you always seem to get to a place of mental fatigue, even in the midst of being in a great place with God, and the cycle feels endless, no matter how hard you try to break it.


What if we told you that exercise may just be your missing link? You already know that exercise is good for your body. But, did you know it can also boost your mental health?



Exercise can help provide:


1. Sharper memory and thinking. The same endorphins that make you feel better also help you concentrate and feel mentally sharp for tasks at hand. Exercise also stimulates the growth of new brain cells


2. Higher self-esteem. Regular activity is an investment in your mind, body, and soul. When it becomes habit, it can foster your sense of self-worth and make you feel strong and powerful. You’ll feel better about your appearance and, by meeting even small exercise goals, you’ll feel a sense of achievement.


3. Better sleep. Even short bursts of exercise in the morning or afternoon can help regulate your sleep pattern. If you prefer to exercise at night, relaxing exercises such as yoga or gentle stretching can help promote sleep.


4. More energy. Increasing your heart rate several times a week will give you more get-up-and-go. Start off with just a few minutes of exercise per day, and increase your workout as you feel more energized.


5. Stronger resilience. When faced with mental or emotional challenges in life, exercise can help you build resilience and cope in a healthy way, instead of resorting to alcohol, drugs, or other negative behaviors that ultimately only make your symptoms worse. Regular exercise can also help boost your immune system and reduce the impact of stress.



Exercise is not just about aerobic capacity and muscle size. Sure, exercise can improve your physical health and your physique, trim your waistline, improve your sex life, and even add years to your life. But that’s not what motivates most people to stay active.


People who exercise regularly tend to do so because it gives them an enormous sense of well-being. They feel more energetic throughout the day, sleep better at night, have sharper memories, and feel more relaxed and positive about themselves and their lives.


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