Exercise: The Gift that Keeps on Giving

So many times when we think of self-care, we think of ways to make ourselves look and feel good on the outside. The majority of the time, we neglect to think of ways to boost our mood and self-confidence by focusing on our internal well-being. I must admit I love how I feel when I am all dolled up. I’m talking hair; manicure; pedicure; eyebrows; eyelashes; the works! Even though I love to get dolled up, there is no greater feeling then having a great workout. Maybe it’s the endorphins or adrenaline rush, but I feel a positive shift in my mood afterwards, which is always a plus!

I know many of you may have heard the term endorphins, but you may not understand what they are and how they help the body. Endorphins are hormones that are released by your body to reduce pain and stress. These hormones are released during activities like exercise, sex, or eating. They can help alleviate depression, stress, and anxiety.

Yep, you read that correctly! You can release the same hormones with exercise as you can with sex and with eating. Yes ladies, I said it. I had to take a double take after writing it and something clicked for me too. Instead of eating away my feelings after a stressful day, I can exercise. I no longer see snacking on my favorite piece of chocolate and binge-watching Real Housewives as my only way to destress from a long day. I will also consider more often that maybe my body is signaling that I need intimate time with my husband to unwind. Now that you know there are positive alternatives to boosting your mood including exercise are you willing to try something different?

If improving your overall mood doesn’t make you want to get up and exercise maybe these other benefits listed below will encourage you to get up and move.

· Improves memory and brain function.

· Weight management.

· Reduce risk of heart disease.

· Strengthen bones and muscles.

· Reduce risk for cancer.

So now you know the benefits of exercise, now let’s think about what type of exercise you should consider depending on your needs.

Strength Training: Ok Ladies I am here to tell you that strength training is for everyone. It assists with weight control, maintains muscle mass, promotes good bone health, and improves posture and balance. You do not have to lift heavy to see results. Start with lighter weights and focus on control and completing reps. Don’t forget to use your own body weight. No excuses because you have everything you need.

Stretching: I have started incorporating stretching into my morning routine. I never thought I would feel hip or back pain at the age of 35. But after long hours of charting and carrying extra weight, I noticed hip pain that I never thought I would feel at this age. When I complete a five minute stretch in the morning, my body lets me know it was so appreciative by working better throughout the day. I believe in stretching before and after a good workout, which we sometime forget to include in our workout routine.

Aerobic: This exercise is great for lowering blood pressure, stimulating bone growth, controlling blood sugar, and improving lung functions.

Balance Training: Balance exercises can help prevent falls, improve posture and coordination. Tai chi and yoga are great ways to complete balance training.

No matter why you choose to exercise or what type of exercise you choose, I encourage you to MOVE! Your mind and your body will thank you. When you focus on how to make yourself beautiful on the outside, don’t forget to make time for exercise to improve your overall state of wellness. Always remember to make wellness your best accessory.

Your Sister in Wellness,

Lauren