DID YOU KNOW: May is Mental Health Awareness month! Here are some great reasons for focusing on movement as a method for mental health improvement going into summer.
Movement ????♂️????
???? Makes you feel happy: When you move, your brain releases chemicals called endorphins, which can boost your mood and make you feel good. ????
????️ Reduces stress: Moving your body can help lower stress hormones in your body, like cortisol. It’s like a built-in stress buster that can make you feel more relaxed and less anxious. ????
???? Helps you sleep better: Regular physical activity can improve the quality of your sleep. When you get enough restful sleep, you’ll wake up feeling refreshed. As a result, you’ll feel more mentally alert and balanced. (Bonus: Many of our nutrition clients have seen a positive change in eating habits directly linked to getting more sleep as well! We all know the 2pm grogginess that leads to a vending machine raid.) ????
???? Boosts your self-esteem: When you engage in movement and exercise, you can feel a sense of accomplishment. Seeing improvements in your fitness abilities and feeling good about your body can make you feel more confident and positive about yourself. “I walk out of here differently than I walked in” is not an uncommon statement from people following a great workout session.????
???? Keeps your brain sharp: Moving your body isn’t just good for your muscles; it’s also great for your brain. Exercise can improve your memory, attention, and concentration, making you sharper and more focused. ????
???? Connects you with others: Many activities and sports involve being around other people. Whether it’s joining a dance class or playing a team sport, being active with others gives you a chance to socialize, make friends, and feel a sense of belonging. “Connection” is our first core value for a reason: Everything good stems from a positive solid connection, including the drive to move more and better. ????
???? Helps you relax and take a break: When you’re moving, it gives your mind a break from everyday worries and stress. It’s a chance to focus on something different and give your mind a rest, which can leave you feeling more relaxed and refreshed. ????
Remember, you don’t have to do intense workouts daily to get these benefits. Simple activities like walking ????♀️, dancing ????, or gardening ???? can also make a big difference. We, of course, recommend strength training several times a week; but most people go through phases in their lives where they struggle to get into the gym consistently. But you can still try to find activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good, and try to make movement a regular part of your life. It really is the gift that keeps on giving for a lifetime, and your body and your precious mind will thank you! ✨