“Move your body.” Both modern and ancient doctors have iterated this because exercising is not only wonderful for your heart and lungs.

But also your mental health.

Some people use exercise as a form of therapy and it really works.

But how exactly can moving your body work wonders for your mental well-being?

Feel good hormones

While experts used to predict the feel-good high initially described as “runner’s high” to be caused by “endorphins” further research found the culprit to be a brain chemical called “endocannabinoids”

This chemical triggers that feel-good high that activates the release of dopamine.

All of a sudden you feel blissful and hopeful.

Self-esteem boost

Think of this: every time you plan a workout for the next day. ei a thirty-minute walk, and you show up, what does that do you for your confidence?

Right, it reinforces your confidence to do what you said you would.

In this case, it’s something amazing.

So what happens when you show up for your exercise severally each week?

Your self-esteem skyrockets, not to mention nailing your fitness goals.

How to make exercise work for you

• Create a routine; you don’t have to exercise every day but often.
• Find activities that you love and align with your fitness goals.
• Get an uplifting workout outfit, a nice water bottle, and a playlist if you fancy one.

Extra tips

• To maximize your exercise routine and get amazing dopamine boosts, exercise for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
• Aerobic exercises such as dancing, swimming, and cycling have been shown to have the biggest dopamine release.