Why Does Exercise Make Us Feel Good

To exercise you do not need to run marathons or lift weights for hours on end. You simply have to move. You will be amazed at how wonderful you will feel if you exercise for thirty minutes at a time, three or four times a week. Exercising helps the body release endorphins, which are hormones that create a sense of elation and positivity. These hormones can help boost us out of a foul mood, so exercising is a wise strategy.
 
In addition to endorphins, the brain releases adrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine when you exercise. These chemicals all work together to make you feel good. If you need an emotional uplift, exercise because physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that allow you to feel happy and relaxed. You will feel better about your appearance and this will lead to increased confidence and improved self-esteem.

Research Studies Show Improved Mental Health with Regular Exercise

Research supports the idea that exercise makes us feel better. A study done by Norwegian researchers involving 4,500 participants found that those who engage in any amount of exercise have improved mental health when compared to those who never exercise. Another study by the American College of Sports Medicine found that six weeks of bicycle riding or weight training eased symptoms of women who were diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. The exercise resulted in less irritability and overall improved mental health.

The National Institute of Mental Health found out what is going on with the brain during and after physical activity and how it provides emotional satisfaction. This group of researchers studied two types of male mice, aggressive “alpha” mice and more gentle male mice or “beta” mice.

When they subjected the beta mice to the alpha mice, it made them anxious. They froze or hid in dark corners to escape their aggressive counterparts. The head researcher, Dr. Lehmann, reported that the repeated stress and exposure to the alpha mice made the beta mice become depressed. When a subgroup of beta mice were allowed access to running wheels and explorable tubes in their cages that allowed them to get exercise, they were not as intimidated by the alpha mice and appeared less stressed and anxious when exposed to them. They did not freeze or hide in corners.

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The significance of this research involves understanding the relationship between stress and mood disorders and the effects exercise has on anxiety disorders and depression. Furthermore, Dr. Lehmann concluded that running and exercise was the key to the animals’ ability to rebound from their unpleasant situations. While no one will argue with the fact that humans are not mice. The research conducted on mice has proven true in humans, however. Hierarchies, which are marked by bullying, result in stress for the person with the beta personality.

What You Need To Know About the Benefits of Exercise

The doctors at the Mayo Clinic say there are many different benefits of exercise. One important fact is that it controls your weight and boosts your metabolism. Whether you have a regular, set routine or not, exercise keeps you trim. If you are worried about heart disease or high blood pressure, being active will help ward off these conditions, as well.
 

Increased physical activity will help decrease your risk for diabetes, depression, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Research shows that people who exercise have a much lower risk of having a heart attack. Regular exercise will help with muscle strength and endurance. One of the physical benefits related to exercising is overall improved health. Having more flexibility and stronger muscles will reduce some aches and pains that result from daily stresses. Exercise will reduce fatigue and increase personal stamina which contributes to improved mental status functioning.

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Often people will not participate in regular daily activities due to chronic fatigue. Daily exercise will give you the energy you need to do the things you need to do and want to do. By reducing your weight and maintaining toned muscles, you improve the way you look and your clothes fit better. This allows you to feel better emotionally because of increased self-confidence and pride in your appearance. People who look and feel good are not likely to suffer from anxiety or depression and are more likely to be active socially.

How Doses Exercise Help Prevent Diseases?

The latest research shows that exercise improves mental acuity which involves focus and concentration. You will have a decreased chance of developing Alzheimer’s and senility in your golden years. By exercising regularly, you can lower your cholesterol and blood pressure and this diminished the risks of heart attack and stroke. More data exists that shows that regular weight-bearing exercise will reduce the risk of osteoporosis and actually reverses osteoporosis by building bone tissue. Possible the best preventive benefit for women is the reduced risk of breast cancer. Studies have found that women who engage in regular exercise routines have up to 60% reduction of this disease. By reducing stress levels in your body, you have a reduced risk of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and irritability.

More Benefits of Exercise

• Improves flexibility
• Aids in the prevention of diseases
• Keeps weight under control
• Reduces fatigue
• Strengthens and tones muscles
• Enhances your stamina
• Improves sleeping habits