Thursday, April 16, 2009

Warning!! Exercise can be addictive

Studies have shown that people who exercise reguarly for six months or more actually have physical reactions if the exercise pattern is slowed.

I have had more physical issues this last month with increased stress, tense shoulders, aches and pains & just feeling crummy. That's not like me & I was in such great shape this last year. Time to move myself back to the front, no more excuses!

As most of you know I have relied heavily on exercise in my healing. I was not an athelete before my panic started and I don't really consider myself one now. However, I did learn that exercise is so important to my well being. It's a great time for me to escape. Believe it or not I am able to mentally relax while I workout. I now really love it.

The last few months life has been hectic & I seemed to be tied to a desk chair more that usual. I have not been able to make it to the gym hardly at all. I purchased some home DVDs with the thought that I would get up before the family & get my workout in. I hate to admit it but I am not a morning person. I can also talk myself out of anything and that alarm probably has the snooze button worn out by now. The days that I did get up - my computer was calling and my mind was on everything else I needed to do. I admit it - I cannot workout at home. The money for the gym is well spent, it is an investment in my health.

This last weekend I joined a gym that is closer to work and home & I printed the exercise plan that you can download too from our site. I have made my plan to work out 5 days a week.

Have you made an exercise plan? It is so important to your well being. Start slow & make a goal. Walk/Run a 5K, tone up, just feel better - whatever your goal is.

Some of the benefits of exercise are really amazing & we all really need them!

·Exercise will increase Serotonin, Dopamine, Endorphins.

· Research has shown that as little as eight minutes of exercise can reduce anxious feelings & reduce sadness.

· Will increase energy & stimulate the relaxation response in the body.

· Exercise can regulate sleeping patterns and reduce insomnia.

· Researchers at Duke University studied people suffering from depression for 4 months and found that 60% of the participants who exercised for 30 minutes three times a week overcame their depression without using antidepressant medication. Same percentage as those who only used medication.

Join me for a run! I will be back at the gym at lunch tomorrow doing my intervals. Let me know what kind of exercise works for you!

I am always here for you if you need a shoulder to lean on, have questions or someone to celebrate with.

Wishing you a peaceful day,
Amy

Quote of the Day

"Movement is a medicine for creating change in a person's physical, emotional, and mental states."
~Carol Welch

0 Comments: