Exercise Will Get You Out of a Funk

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I always exercise with my over all health in mind but never think it'll help lift me out of a funk. I know that exercise is a stress reliever but it's not on my mind or the reason why I workout. I just think it's good for me. Earlier this week, I was feeling blah and I had a choice to make; sit idle, lay in bed, eat mindlessly or exercise.

I chose to get moving to help burn of what I was feeling. I laced up my running shoes and went for a four mile run. Emotionally, I felt fantastic at the end. According to the Mayo Clinic, physical activity increases endorphins in the brain and increases self confidence and lowers symptoms of mild depression. Endorphins are chemicals released in the brain and they help deal with pain or stress.

I can definitely say that my brains released endorphins to help get me out of my funk. I do a variety of exercises ranging from Zumba, indoor cycling, running, or use an exercise equipment such as an elliptical. I usually exercise for about an hour doing aerobic and strength training exercises. But physical activity for even 10 minutes will make a difference.

As a group fitness instructor, I encourage my students to exercise even when they don't feel like it. I'll share my experience of the benefit of physical activity reducing stress with them. Here's to your health and reducing stress.