Exercises usually possess an optimistic effect on our body and mind. Apart from benefiting physically, a steady exercise routine also has several psychological benefits. Physical activities increase the level of various neurotransmitters in the blood, which influence the psychological functions. Depression quite often is linked to decreased level of serotonin in the blood. Hence, exercising regularly increases the secretion of these hormones which in turn reduces the effect of depression.
Feeling Nice
Regular exercise makes your heart and bones stronger, decreases your potential risk for chronic disease right along with your blood pressure, keeps your bodyweight under control and reduces feelings of anxiety and depression. When you're boosting your stamina and energy, oxygen capacity, muscular tone and general fitness, a side benefit is a rise in self-esteem. More so, the success of developing an exercise strategy and sticking to it enables you enjoy a feel of achievement.
Exercise helps one to look nice, and feel attractive from within. A more healthy and fit body also means a happy frame of mind, which leads to psychological well-being. This further makes someone self-confident about his abilities. This self esteem is reflected in professional and personal relationships.
Positive Energy in Mind and Body
Cardio workouts or aerobics help reduce anxiety, other than burning fats. After an exercise session, someone appears to be fresh due to an increased flow of blood to the brain. Physical workouts also release endorphins in the blood which triggers a sense of happiness reducing the feeling of depression. It has been noticed that those who exercise daily are capable of confronting difficult situations in a good manner in contrast to people who do not. Positive energy permits clarity of thought.
Om and Zen
Yoga, meditation, tai chi and qigong decrease tension, worry, depression and wrath and enhance psychological functioning. A yoga practice, as reported by "Yoga Journal" decreases levels of cortisol and adrenaline, and helps to regulate blood sugar level, blood pressure, insulin resistance and the food seeking behavior" influenced by stress and tension that leads to weight gain and additional abdominal fat. Meditation stimulates the prefrontal cortex that controls happiness levels and healthy immunity. Sit on a bolster and concentrate on your breathing, stretch up into a backbend, even chill in Corpse or Child pose, and you calm down, relief tension, and improve coordination, quick reactions, IQ and ability to remember. You'll also sleep much better and stabilize your emotions, resulting in more beneficial social relationships and a positive self-image.
Complete Alertness
All the lethargy and/or moody behavior is driven away with regular exercising. The mind tends to stay alert which enhances the concentration and memory. With an improved flow of blood, oxygen, and necessary nutrients to the brain, a person feels alert. An active and healthy body also induces a good night's sleep. A good 8 hours of sound sleep makes a person feel active and alert during the day.
Reduction of Fatigue and Stress
Working professionals these days often tend to feel bogged down at work. There are times when a person feels extremely exhausted without really exerting the body physically. However, people who exercise regularly are well equipped to tackle such problems. Daily problems seem minor and a person used to any form of exercise does not really feel stressed about trivial issues. Exercise also reduces frustration levels.
