You might know that exercising will have a positive effect on your body, but did you know the benefits it has on your mind?  There is a connection between  having a fit body and your mental health, something that people are starting to understand and enjoy.

The Body

The body responds to stimulus in the form of exercise.  If you’re not used to moving, it might at first feel like you are aching all over from just walking around the neighborhood.  If you have lived a sedentary life up until now, the muscles are not accustomed to being taxed in this way so they get sore.

Over time, the muscles will grow and get stronger in response to regular exercise. The benefit? Well, your body will look more toned; you can increase your aerobic capacity (you won’t be huffing and puffing when you walk or run) and lose weight. Staying in shape is one possible key to living a longer, healthier life. We all want that.

As your body slides into a state of fitness, you will feel confident enough to take on new challenges. Building a stronger, more fit body is a lifelong process with great fringe benefits.

The Mind

Have you heard of the “runner’s high”? It is a feeling that starts in the mind with the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers. But, that feeling isn’t limited to running. It’s a by-product of exercise and getting fit.

Within the realm of mental illness these days, people are looking for alternatives to traditional medications. Too many side effects lead them to natural paths to boost mental clarity.

Exercise is certainly a way to do that. Through regular exercise, the body releases endorphins. It could be a way of the body applying a pain reliever so you can keep on working out. Either way, your mind reaps the benefits of the presence of those endorphins.

Getting fit can increase your mental focus. This can help reduce stress levels. With a clear head, you might be able to find solutions to your pressing problems a lot easier.

What leads to depression and other mental issues? It could be weight. It could be other health problems. When you exercise, you shrink your risk factors for heart attack, stroke, obesity and more.

Getting fit makes you want to get even fitter. When you see that you sleep better (which reduces stress), can think more clearly and are losing weight, you are more likely to stick with that program to see more results.

The same goes for the mental aspect of fitness. You gain confidence in yourself that translates into a bolder you who is not afraid of new challenges. And it’s all because of the mind/body connection you have cultivated through exercise.

So to increase your positive mental health, try working out hot just to look better but to think better too.