Working out to improve mental health

LOREL DANIELOV

Working out helps relieve tension in your body, which can be beneficial for not only your physical wellbeing, but also your mental wellbeing. CREDIT: PEXELS

In addition to the physical benefits of working out that can help with health, confidence, and wellness, the stimulation of energy releases endorphins that can be linked to stressors affecting your everyday life. Because the body and mind are connected, stress can occasionally manifest into physical pain.

When the pressure starts taking control of your life, you may likely notice some discomfort because your muscles are strained. But working out is a great medicine to relieve pain because it relieves the tension and strains in your body. So when your body feels better, your mind will too.

Sure, when you aren't doing too great, getting yourself up and to the gym can seem like a hassle, but once you make that initial jump, the gym feels less scary, and finding the motivation will feel much simpler.

The cool part of working out is that there are so many different ways to do it! If you prefer more strength-related workouts, there are many ways to test and push yourself to get stronger, such as lifting weights which can help boost your confidence. Or maybe you are into endurance, so, for example, running may be a good option for you. The runner's high that people always talk about is usually associated with more endurance-type workouts because the feeling of euphoria that overtakes you can help take your mind off whatever is affecting your mental health.

Another option, more suitable for somebody interested in improving breathing and coordination, could focus on more balance and flexibility-related exercises, such as yoga and pilates, which are known to prevent stress. Yoga is especially good because it allows you to slow down your body and breathing, which can help calm the mind.

Suppose you favour any of these working styles. In that case, you are in luck because there is a wonderful facility on campus that offers many exercise classes.

That said, many exercises can be done from the comfort of your home, so for those days when you can't bring yourself to leave the house, you can still work out with some motivation. And, on the days you can get out of the house, something as easy as a smile or a warm greeting can change your mood and make your day.

Another positive effect of working out for your mental health is that it is a way to cope with your stress healthily. Whenever things start to feel like too much, working out will help you relieve that stress by getting your energy out in a way that is effective but still productive and good for your health.

So, if you are searching for a way to relieve tension and relax your body and mind, working out may be right up your alley!

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