Shore Fit
By Bonnie Dodd-Miller
You already know that exercise is good for your body. But did you know it can also boost your mood, improve your sleep, and help you deal with depression, anxiety, stress, and more? Exercise is not just about aerobic capacity, endurance, strength and muscle size. It has mental health benefits also.
Exercise does improve your physical health and your figure, trims your waistline, and even adds years to your life. But that’s not what motivates most people to stay active. Surprisingly, most people who exercise regularly do so because it gives them a sense of well being. They feel good about themselves and it gives them a feeling of control over their lives. That’s powerful! The confidence booster alone is second to none. It’s difficult to feel good about yourself if you aren’t taking care of yourself. Exercise can make you feel more energetic throughout the day and sleep better at night.
When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are chemicals in your brain that energize your spirits and make you feel good. Exercising can also serve as a great distraction, allowing you to find some quiet time to break out of the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression. I never heard anyone negatively self talk during a workout.
Exercise is natural and effective. It relieves tension and stress, boosts physical and mental energy, and enhances your wellbeing as a whole. Try to notice the sensation of your feet hitting the ground, while walking or running or the rhythm of your breathing. Don’t forget the plethora of sweat or the feeling of the wind and sun on your skin. Being mindful of all these sensations is also powerful.
Do you get it yet? Exercise is power, the power to do good for one’s self, the power to lift weights, the power to be healthy, the power to enhance your golden years, the power to feel good about yourself, the power to feel confident. This is where it’s at! Focus on your body and how it feels as you exercise and you’ll not only improve your physical condition but you will also interrupt the flow of constant worries running through your head. It’s a celebration of doing what’s good for the mind, body and soul.
Bonnie Miller is certified fitness instructor at the Ocean City Aquatic and Fitness Center and Atilis Gym in Galloway. She is a mom of three and resides Somers Point.
