DITCH THE LIFT AND ESCALATOR: See You at The Top of The Stairs

How many of you manage to exercise consistently is perplexing to observe. The longest I’ve ever gone is a month, and that’s with skipping up to two days at a time severally. Anyway, we try again another day. Exercise is not just about keeping your body fit, its benefits to mental health are far-reaching. While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, integrating regular exercise into your routine can be a game-changer. When you engage in physical activity, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins act as natural stress relievers, helping combat tension, stress, anxiety, depression and more. Have you ever noticed that after a workout, you feel more relaxed and at ease? That's the magic of endorphins at work.

Exercise has a direct influence on your mood. That “runner’s high”, the euphoria that you experience after a workout is a result of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are known as "feel-good" chemicals. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating your mood and emotions. So, when you exercise regularly, you're essentially giving your brain a natural boost of happiness.

In the face of challenges, having a reliable stress management tool is essential and exercise fits the bill perfectly. Instead of turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse or binge eating, turning to physical activity offers a healthier, more sustainable way to manage stress and build resilience. Brisk walks, yoga sessions, heart-pumping cardio workouts, or any physical activity trigger the release of endorphins, the body's natural stress fighters. These feel-good chemicals help to reduce cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone, leaving you feeling more relaxed.

If you struggle with anxiety, exercise can be a lifeline. It provides a healthy outlet for pent-up energy and helps to calm your mind. By focusing on the physical activity at hand, you can temporarily distract yourself from worry and intrusive thoughts. Additionally, it promotes relaxation by reducing muscle tension and promoting better sleep, both of which are crucial for managing anxiety symptoms. Plus, the relaxation techniques often incorporated into exercise, such as deep breathing and stretching are soothing.

Exercise also plays a role in boosting self-esteem. As you work towards your fitness goals and see improvements in your strength, endurance, and physique, you'll naturally feel more confident in yourself. Achieving milestones in your exercise routine can be incredibly empowering and can translate into greater self-assurance in other areas of your life too.

Beyond its immediate effects, exercise has long-term benefits for cognitive function and brain health. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive function. Regular exercise has even been linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

Exercise doesn't have to be a solitary endeavour. It can be a social activity, providing opportunities for connection and support. Participating in group fitness classes or team sports can create a sense of camaraderie and belonging. These social connections are vital for mental well-being, offering a support system and a sense of community.

Without a shadow of a doubt, aside from exercise sculpting your body, it's about nurturing your mind and soul. Therefore, lace up those sneakers, roll out your yoga mat, grab your bike, and your mental well-being will thank you for it.