Remember WHY we need to exercise
Quite apart from the fact that lockdown infers less body movement and potential weight gain for those individuals confined predominantly at home, we need exercise to promote our mental wellness. Physical activity releases chemicals like endorphins and serotonin that improve our mood. The increased blood circulation to the brain influences the pituitary and adrenal glands, which are linked to physiological reactivity to stress, as well as functions such as motivation and mood. In today’s uncertain times, exercise is a great tool to help abate signs of depression, anxiety and negative mood, and boost self-esteem. It also gives us a sense of regularity and structure, which experts like Yale Psychology professor Laurie Santos, tutor on the University’s ‘Science of Well-Being course’, say are useful in challenging times.
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