Exercise releases endorphins in our bodies, which are neurotransmitters (biochemical substances) in the brain that, among other things, produce a sense of well-being. When we exercise, we not only feel stronger and healthier, but we are also better able to deal with the day-to-day stress in our lives. It helps us take life in stride.
Exercise also encourages the nerve cells in our brains to secrete other neurotransmitters-serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine—which are known to minimize anxiety. Many researchers believe exercise is the best antidepressant available. So if you struggle with depression or anxiety, gird up your mind with God's Word first. Find scriptures to stand on that will bring you peace. Then try exercising regularly. It is a natural, healthy way to combat depression.
Research also suggests that exercise may stimulate the growth of new brain cells that enhance memory and learning—two functions that are hampered by depression. Exercise is also proven to relieve muscle tension and improve our ability to relax. This is especially important when we are overwhelmed or stressed out. Have you ever gone to bed exhausted, yet were unable to relax enough to go to sleep?
Well research shows that exercisers go to sleep more quickly, sleep more soundly and are more refreshed in the morning than individuals who do not exercise. So if you're having trouble sleeping, you can stand on the promise that God will give you, His beloved, sleep (Psalm 127:2), and you can work out to help you relax. Where stress is concerned, exercise is an excellent natural remedy. It can help us achieve a sense of well-being, aid us in dealing with depression and anxiety, and help us sleep better. Now if that were all the benefits of exercise, wouldn't it be worth it to make exercise part of your daily routine? But that's not all.
There are many more benefits such as, exercise:
1. Increases your stamina and endurance
2. Reduces your risk for heart disease and stroke
3. Strengthens your immune system
4. Strengthens your bones and joints, decreasing the chance for osteoporosis
5. Increases the number of calories you burn, accelerating weight loss and encouraging weight control
6. Strengthens your heart and lungs so that they will work more efficiently
7. Decreases your blood pressure and LDL or "bad" cholesterol while raising your HDL or "good" cholesterol
8. Improves circulation and supplies more oxygen to the brain thereby increasing your ability to think and reason
1. Increases your stamina and endurance
2. Reduces your risk for heart disease and stroke
3. Strengthens your immune system
4. Strengthens your bones and joints, decreasing the chance for osteoporosis
5. Increases the number of calories you burn, accelerating weight loss and encouraging weight control
6. Strengthens your heart and lungs so that they will work more efficiently
7. Decreases your blood pressure and LDL or "bad" cholesterol while raising your HDL or "good" cholesterol
8. Improves circulation and supplies more oxygen to the brain thereby increasing your ability to think and reason
Understanding the value of exercise can positively affect our attitude toward it and help us become committed to it.
