exercise

As much as we should care for our emotional selves through connections, meditations, and sleep, we should also always prioritize our physical wellbeing and health. A way to do this is working out. This doesn’t necessarily have to be doing 30 minute HIIT workouts from youtube. It can be going on a walk, riding a bike, dancing, yoga/pilates, or pursuing sports. There are many options, and an important factor in choosing what's right for us is to simply listen to our bodies. Some of us prefer calmer, more relaxing exercise such as going on a walk or hiking, yoga, pilates, or swimming, to gather ourselves. On the other hand, some of us prefer energizing, or enlivening exercises such as sports (basketball, football, etc), dance, or even going to the gym for weights or cardio. Sports can be a great way to connect with ourselves and perform self-care. Thanking the body that helps us to function our soul can be by moving it and keeping it in good shape. Regular exercise helps also to build self-confidence and appreciation. It is obvious that working out improves our physical state, and consistency can be a healthy option for those who want to feel more fit. Working out increases the beneficial cholesterol levels in our bodies, allowing for easier blood flow and the combat of diseases such as high blood pressure, strokes, depression, and more. Moreover, moving our bodies also helps to deliver oxygen to our tissues and triggers our brains to release certain chemicals. Namely, these are dopamine and endorphins, and the release of these leads to lower stress levels, and improved self-esteem. So it would be a good idea to refer to working out in a moment of anxiety, anger, or sadness. When relaxing from a personal or social conflict, distracting or even releasing the stress of the moment with exercise is a good idea. Moving our bodies is truly what we can give back to replenish ourselves physically and emotionally.