Written by Victoria Allen, Resident in Counseling
Let’s be honest—most of us would rather binge-watch our favorite show than hit the gym, but there are so many benefits of movement and exercise on mental health. Exercise is like a VIP spa treatment for your brain, and the benefits are truly amazing. Exercise is basically an all-natural antidepressant, and when you engage in movement, your brain releases many feel-good chemicals like endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin. These are the same chemicals responsible for happiness, relaxation, and that post-workout glow.
Let’s talk about these chemicals a little in detail:
Endorphins: Nature’s Painkillers
These chemicals are like your brain’s way of high-fiving you after a workout. They help reduce pain, boost pleasure, and leave you feeling like you just conquered the world. Endorphins aren’t just for pain—they're also there to reward you, leaving you feeling accomplished and elated. This chemical boost is the reason exercise often feels so rewarding, giving you that sense of triumph and invincibility.
Dopamine: The Motivation Juice
Dopamine is the brain’s reward system. It’s what makes you feel good when you accomplish something. Exercise increases dopamine levels, keeping you motivated and driven. When you work out, your body releases dopamine, helping you feel energized, motivated, and focused. It’s why after a tough workout, you may feel like you’re on top of the world, eager to tackle your next goal. The more you exercise, the more dopamine gets released, keeping you hooked on those positive feelings and fueling your drive to keep moving forward.
Serotonin: The Happy Hormone
Low serotonin levels are linked to depression, but exercise naturally boosts serotonin, helping you feel more balanced, calm, and positive. The good news is that exercise is a natural serotonin booster. Physical activity, especially aerobic exercises like running or cycling, helps your brain produce more serotonin, leaving you feeling more positive and emotionally balanced. So, when you’re feeling down, try a quick burst of movement—whether it’s a dance, a brisk walk, or a short jog. You’ll likely notice a shift in your mood as those serotonin levels rise, giving you a natural and uplifting boost.
Ways to Add Movement to Everyday Life:
Take the stairs
Park further away from your destination
Walk while chatting on the phone
Stretch during commercial breaks while watching TV
It’s safe to say that you don’t have to be a fitness guru or a marathon runner to reap the mental health benefits of movement. Even small amounts of exercise can do wonders for your brain, boosting memory, improving mood, and helping you make better decisions. So, get up, move around, and let your brain enjoy the ultimate glow-up. Your mind (and your future self) will thank you!
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