How often have you put off exercise for a rainy day, appreciating it only because of its calorie-burning benefits and effects on your metabolism? Many folks tend to absolutely dread their workouts, checking the time frequently for the moment it’s finally okay allow it a rest.

It’s Time for a Mindset Reboot

Truth find out, any given workout does so a lot more than just scorch calories. Exercise is a total body game-changer, paving the way for better health in all areas of your life: weight-loss, stress management, endurance, creativity, balance and coordination, and much more.

The next time you forego a workout because it doesn’t seem worthwhile, ask yourself, “How can exercise benefit me today, tomorrow, with what I’m trying to accomplish in my goals?” You might just discover the mental motivation you need to get up and obtain moving.

Exercise and Your Brain

Did you know that exercise can alter your brain’s neuron pathways and release key hormones to profit your mental health? Your mind plays a significant role in weight-loss — perhaps a lot more than you might think. Check out these mental health benefits to exercise:

It Stimulates Brain Growth

As you get older, you don’t generate as many new brain cells and tissue actually starts to shrink. Regular exercise, however, can stimulate brain growth with increased blood and oxygen flow.

It Boosts Cognitive Abilities

Regular movement helps you focus on complex tasks, think critically and abstractly, organize and plan. It also helps your working memory and fights against degenerative mental diseases.

It Releases Valuable Hormones

Exercise releases an array of helpful hormones that give your mind a rich, nourishing environment for the growth of new brain cells. One particular hormone is Brain-derived Neuropathic Factor (BDNF), which you can think of as “fertilizer” for your brain.

It Combats Stress Face-to-Face

Stress around the mind and body releases the powerful hormone cortisol, which not only affects your thinking, but also affects your metabolism, appetite and hormones. Exercise actually slows down the discharge of cortisol and lowers your levels.

It Puts You inside a Better Mood

There’s a reason you are feeling better after exercise, and it’s not just because your muscles got an energizing workout. Physical activity releases feel-good endorphins to fight depression and anxiety thus making you feel like you’ve just won the lottery (okay, to an extent).

Do Your Brain a Favor

The the next time you’re feeling stressed, sad or anxious, or when you’re feeling like you’re caught inside a mental rut, why not lace your sneakers and get moving? You’ll not only make a dent with your weight and health goals, but you’ll give your brain a boost, too.