If you’re anything like me, one of the first things to go when I get busy is my workout. Sure I want to go for a run, but when push comes to shove, I’ll nix a work out in favor of getting work done, reconnecting with friends, or even sometimes watching bad reality TV. Sometimes I skip the gym because I’m just feeling too tired.
The irony is when I’m feeling tired is exactly the time I should be exercising! So the next time you need some motivation to get moving, remind yourself:
1. Exercise literally makes you smarter
According the New York Times, “Scientists in just the past few months have discovered that exercise appears to build a brain that resists physical shrinkage and enhance cognitive flexibility. Exercise, the latest neuroscience suggests, does more to bolster thinking than thinking does.”
Both long-term and short term, exercise helps us think more clearly, creatively, and efficiently. So instead of spending 4 hours putting together tomorrow’s PowerPoint, go for a 30 minute run and spend 2 hours on the presentation.
2. Exercise makes you happier
In the Huffington Post, kinesiology graduate student at Penn State Amanda Hype explains,“People who are more physically active have more pleasant-activated feelings than people who are less active, and we also found that people have more pleasant-activated feelings on days when they are more physically active than usual.”
Who doesn’t want to more pleasant-activated feelings? Not to mention all the great things that come from being happier. It’s a virtuous cycle!
3. Exercise is the best thing you can do for yourself
In Harvard Magazine, Frank Hu, associate professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public, makes it clear just how valuable exercise is: “We’ve spent years studying numerous nutritional and lifestyle factors… The single thing that comes close to a magic bullet, in terms of its strong and universal benefits, is exercise.”
Make the time to take care of yourself. Make the time to move!
Wellness Wednesday: Exercise, It’s a No-Brainer
