Exercise: the Magic Pill
What if we told you about a magic pill that would improve everything in your life in the blink of an eye? Would you take it?
Chances are, your answer is “Yes, of course I would!”
Spoiler alert: The magic pill does not exist. But you already knew that.
Magic pills are better known as quick fixes that contain ingredients that lead to instant gratification. And while they may allow us to think we are reaping immediate benefits, many of these quick fixes are not sustainable. The real goal is to find the ingredient that leads to lifelong fulfillment and happiness — exercise.
Daily physical activity, regardless of whether it is high intensity or simple movement, will improve your health. Here is a brief list of the benefits exercise provides:
- Decreased risk of major diseases
- A decrease in blood pressure
- Increased control of blood sugar
- Increased strength
- Improved heart and lung capacity
- Increased bone density
- Better balance
- Increased ability to fight off infection
- Decreased joint pain
As you can see, exercise provides a lot of physical benefits. But what about mental benefits? Exercise improves mental health just as much as physical health, and one could argue that the mental health benefits outweigh the physical.
When we exercise, our bodies release chemicals called endorphins, which are brain chemicals responsible for minimizing discomfort and giving us a sense of euphoria. Exercise also causes our brains to develop thicker, stronger connections between neurons, making us sharper, faster and better processors.
These exercise-induced brain benefits have positive effects on the body. For instance, regular exercise can have a profoundly positive impact on depression, anxiety, ADHD and more. One study done by the Harvard School of Public Health found that as little as 15 minutes of exercise can reduce the risk of depression by 26%. Exercise is also a great supplement to anti-anxiety treatment as it helps to relieve stress, boost energy and pump the body full of those aforementioned endorphins.
Here are some other exercise-related mental health benefits:
- Improved sleep, making us more alert and fresh during the day
- An improved state of well-being and outlook on life
- Allows us to approach each situation with optimism and positivity
- Allows us to foster more healthy relationships with others
- Gives us the drive to improve, succeed and plow through roadblocks
- Most importantly, it allows us to appreciate ourselves and realize what we do in life is making a positive impact
Exercise is the magic pill that, when combined with a good mental health plan, works wonders. This is not new or groundbreaking information, but it is a message worth repeating. Please don’t take for granted the power of regular exercise. Even just 15 minutes can improve your mental state.
Keep up with your daily movement, and allow physical activity to help you live your happiest, fullest life!