Let’s be honest about it, not many of us have great enthusiasm to spend the little free time that we have from our busy daily schedules on exercising. We all know it’s good for our health ,but do you also know that it improves your mental health and reduces the risk of developing mental disorders? The following points should convince you to start combining more physical activity in your life.
- Improves mood: Exercising leads to an increased release of serotonin, endorphins and dopamine, which improve the mood, alertness and enthusiasm. Doing physical activities is also a good coping strategy for regulating negative emotions such as anger.
- Boosts self-confidence and self-efficacy: With every improvement as the skills /capabilities become stronger, the more you begin to believe in your own capabilities, self and ability to achieve desirable physical goals. Challenging physical activities function as proofs of endurance, determination and strength. It can alter your beliefs about your ability to reach other achievements in life. Achievements, as well as, setback are good exercises in dealing with frustrations and disappointments. It also helps with learning the importance of setting realistic standards for yourself and of acceptance.
- Reduces depression and it can improve the quality of life – Regular physical activity provides structure, meaning, a sense of accomplishment to someone ,who feels depressed. Additionally, choosing to exercise routinely promotes a sense of control, autonomy and can promote the creation of further changes.
Are you convinced enough to integrate more physical activity in your schedule?
Try and then reflect, Have you noticed these benefits already in your own life?