How Exercise Can Boost Self Confidence
Physical Activity Invigorates Both the Body and the Mind.
You are the guardian who holds the key to opening the door to your own inner confidence. As the key master, a great way to jump-start that process is through exercise and physical activity. Not only does exercise provide significant health benefits and aids in weight loss, but the psychological perks of exercise are astronomical.
Endorphins
When you exercise, your body produces endorphins, a chemical released in your brain that combats stress and pain, and provides mood enhancement and a sense of well-being. In fact, studies have shown that consistent physical activity protects against the onset of depression.The Physical Activity Guideline Advisory Committee reported that on average, active people had nearly 45% lower odds of depression-like symptoms than did inactive people. By taking advantage of these exercise highs, you can acquire a new positive self-perspective. And the best part is, since endorphins are so powerful, exercise can become addicting and something you look forward to. By developing this cycle of activity, you can begin to stand tall, confident and hold an unwavering belief in yourself.
Perks of Exercise
The mere act of physical activity, whether it is a strenuous aerobic activity or even a meandering stroll through the park can be empowering and motivating. Exercise generates a feeling of accomplishment, and thus heightens your self-image. By doing something active you are giving both your body and mind a makeover.
Exercise is also known to boost sex drive and relieve stress and anxiety. It acts as a venue where you can feel triumphant, and good about yourself, and exercise can give you a sense of earned pride since you are doing something beneficial for your body, mind and soul.
Track your Success
A great way to track your success is to keep a journal of your self confidence triumphs. When did you overcome a feeling of doubt? How did it make you feel? By writing down your thoughts and feelings, you can recognize the progress you have made and it allows you to identify areas in which you can continue to improve your self morale. Note daily or weekly activities you accomplished and pen down goals for the following week. Having ambitions brings drive, meaning, and purpose to your life. Having motivation and determination is a gateway to self worth and physical exercise provides the means to get you there.
Need ideas for activities:
- Join a class at your gym (yoga, dance, Pilates, jump rope, spinning, weight lifing)
- Get outside—throw the frisbee, do yard-work, take the dog on a new path
- Join a sports league (flag-football, softball, 3on3 basketball)
- Play with your kids and keep up
- Take a friend to the gym
- Try something new (kickboxing, dance, swim)--Get Creative
The couch and cookie jar doesn’t hold the same appeal. So the next time you have an option to veg out or do something active, remember the self-worth you will feel when you unlace your sneakers and wipe the sweat off your face after that satisfying workout.
Cartwheel into Confidence
|
Climb the Summit to Self-Worth
|
What do you think about this article?
More in Health & Wellness
Latest Articles