Listing the mental health benefits of exercise makes us realize just how important it is to a sound recovery.
Sometimes the most basic things offer the most life changing solutions. Exercise can have a major impact on our daily lives as well as our overall health and well-being. Staying active is key to keeping our brains healthy and an overall recovery strong. The great thing about exercise is that it comes in many forms, biking, swimming, running, weights, yoga – there are many ways to reap the rewards of staying active.
Here are a few of the mental health benefits of exercise:
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
- Boosts ‘feel-good’ chemicals in the brain.
- Increases brainpower, improves memory/focus, and protects against cognitive decline.
- Bolsters self-esteem.
- Cranks up your energy.
- Promotes relaxation and better sleep.
The key is to find types of exercise that you enjoy doing so that you are more likely to want to keep doing them. Try to do some form of exercise on a regular basis and change it up every once and while.
Here are some workout ideas and Atlanta favorites:
Sweat Atlanta Boot Camp
Get motivated.
Location: Norcross
Life Time Fitness
More than just a gym.
Location: Sandy Springs
Atlanta Hot Yoga
Sweat it out.
Location: Buckhead
Urban Body Studios
Pilates classes are available in group or private sessions.
Location: Virginia-Highland
Blast900
Group fitness class that includes strength floor exercises plus treadmill sprints – these classes are known to shred fat and dial up those endorphins.
Location: Multiple
Orangetheory Fitness
Group interval fitness that revs your metabolism and energy level.
Locations: Multiple
And of course gyms and yoga studios aren’t the only place to get exercise. Staying active outside also carries the benefits of fresh air and sunshine. So hit the parks or public pools to walk, run, bike, skate or swim. Even walking the mall has its perks. The important thing is just to keep moving forward!
