Here at Transfitnation, we believe that true wellness encompasses more than just physical appearance. We recognize that a person’s well-being is influenced by multiple factors, including their mental, and emotional health. Everyone knows that exercise can have various benefits on your health, well-being, and body. Lesser known and more importantly, unseen are exercise’s mental and emotional benefits. The majority of people who regularly exercise list mental/emotional well-being as their primary reason for exercising, so what are people missing? The holistic benefits of exercise can include improved energy levels, disease prevention, better sleep, stress reduction, weight management, cognitive function, and mood enhancement, so let’s get into it!

Mental and Emotional Benefits of Exercise

Exercise offers physical benefits, but it offers many emotional and mental benefits as well. Did you know that exercise is a 100% natural anti-depressant? It’s true! Exercising makes your body release endorphins (“feel good hormones”) which can significantly improve your mood and reduce feelings of:
1. Stress
2. Anxiety
3. Depression

Exerting yourself through exercise counterintuitively promotes a sense of relaxation and happiness.

Moreover, regular exercise has been linked to improved:
1. Cognitive function – physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering vital nutrients and oxygen, which can enhance your cognitive abilities such as attention and problem-solving)
2. Memory
3. Thinking skills

Aside from the immediate mental/emotional benefits, over time, exercising regularly and achieving your fitness goals will lead to improved self-esteem, self-worth, and self-confidence.

The Social Benefits of Exercise

Are you ready for the good news? You can do it with friends! Exercising with friends or in groups can provide a platform for individuals to connect, support, and motivate each other, creating a sense of camaraderie and belonging. Group exercise settings often promote a sense of accountability and commitment as well. People who exercise with others or in groups have a 56% increased desire to exercise. Engaging in group exercise activities can allow individuals to connect with others, embrace diversity, and contribute to social causes.

Embracing the Holistic Benefits of Exercise

In conclusion, exercise offers many holistic benefits that extend beyond physical fitness. By incorporating exercise into our lives, we can experience improved mood, reduced stress, enhanced cognitive function, and increased self-confidence. Additionally, exercise provides opportunities for social connection, support, and personal growth. There are more benefits to exercise than anyone thought, so what are you waiting for?

References
1. Becoming a Holistic Wellness Industry
2. Exercise and Depression
3. Regular exercise changes the brain to improve memory, thinking skills
4. Research reveals exercising together increases desire to workout by 56%