Exercising as a Form of Self-Care

by Jun 2, 2019Body and Mind0 comments


Why Self-care and Exercising are a Team


It is a well-researched fact that exercise promotes physical wellbeing, but current studies now indicate that consistent, moderate exercise throughout the week also aids in mental well-health. From stress reduction, improved focus, memory retention, and increased positive mood, exercise proves to be one of the best natural supplements for mental health and one of the best activities you can engage in for self-care.

Let’s explore a little more about self-care and how exercise has an impact. I can attest to, that if I don’t take time to exercise, I get very antsy. The longer I go without doing some exercises the worth I get. There are times when I can’t exercise, for example when I have one of my sick spells and that is ok. I can tell the difference after just a few days, but it is a condition I can’t change and once I feel better, I usually am back on track. But, when I do the exercise I feel uplifted and somehow re-energized.


How is Exercise Self-Care?

When some people imagine self-care activities, they think of things that are fun and relaxing that help the body and mind to unwind, such as a nice bubble bath or binge-watching their favorite show. Most don’t imagine huffing and puffing through a challenging cardio workout as self-care, but in reality, it is. Self-care is any activity that helps to reduce stress and promotes mental health and cognitive functioning. By this definition, an exercise is a perfect form of self-care.


How does Exercise Affect Mental Health?

When you engage in a challenging workout it increases your heart rate, prompting the release of endorphins, which help you to feel calm and happy. In fact, consistent moderate exercise is an effective antidepressant medication at reducing symptoms of depression. Exercise also helps reduce the symptoms related to anxiety by relaxing muscles that have become knotted and tightened due to stress. Exercise helps the mind and body to become more balanced and work in tandem.





What Exercise is Best for Self-Care?


Starting an exercise regimen can be difficult at first. Instead of viewing it as a “have to” find something that you enjoy and stick with it. The more you engage in and repeat the activity the more that it will become part of your self-care routine.

Photo by mali maeder from Pexels

Happy exercising!

Love, and live happily.



Petra Jackson

Petra Jackson

Life Coach & Mentor



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