Fitting a workout into a busy schedule is a constant challenge that we all face. So why do we keep doing it? Most of us are looking for the physical benefits of exercise, such as losing weight or getting stronger, but the daily movement is also one of the best things you can do to improve your mental health.
Working out every day decreases stress, boosts your mood, and improves sleep.
But not all workouts are created equal.
Just like there are some exercises that are better for your body, some are better for your mind.
So what workouts are the best for your mental health?
1. Yoga
Yoga is an exercise that challenges both the body and mind. It burns calories and makes you stronger, while also increasing awareness and feelings of calm through breathing techniques.
A regular yoga practice has been shown to decrease anxiety, increase happiness, and even relieve chronic pain, such as migraines.
Yoga also increases resilience, which is something a lot of us are looking for a little more of, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
One of the major ways that Yoga improves mental health is through increasing GABA, a brain chemical that is often low in people who suffer from anxiety disorders.
Yoga also increases mindfulness through a focus on the present moment and connection between the mind and the body.
2. Running
Running is a great way to boost endorphins and lower stress. As an added bonus, it doesn’t require any equipment or a gym. All you need is a pair of high-quality running shoes and a great playlist.
Running burns a lot calories in a short period of time and also has huge mental benefits.
Some studies have found that running may actually work as well as medication when it comes to decreasing anxiety.
Running outside is especially valuable, since being in nature is linked to decreased stress and improved mood.
3. Walking
For some people, a consistent running habit can be tough on their joints, knees, or shins. If that’s the case for you, you’ll see the same improvements to your mental health from walking.
Walking is a low-intensity workout that’s also a great way to clear your mind and get out of the house.
While it may seem counterintuitive, one of the best ways to boost your productivity at work is to take a break and go for a short walk. You’ll come back feeling refreshed, more focused, and ready to power through your to-do list.
4. Kickboxing
After a difficult day, there’s no better way to bust stress than to punch it out.
A Cardio Kickboxing workout is usually a series of combos composed of different combinations of punches and kicks.
Not only is it a ton of fun, it also boosts confidence and makes you feel more powerful and strong.
For more reasons to try Kickboxing, check out this article.
5. Dancing
You can always rely on a dance workout for a major mood boost.
Dancing allows you to let loose and have fun while letting go of any stressors from the day.
Like Kickboxing, dancing is a great way to improve confidence and self-esteem.
Studies also show that dancing improves brain function as you age since it keeps your mind active while you’re executing the choreography.
Exercise is for the mind as much as it is for the body.
Working out has incredible benefits, but it’s not worth it if it feels like something you have to do instead of something you want to do.
If you’re having trouble sticking to a consistent routine, keep trying out different workouts, until you find something that you love rather than dread.
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