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8 Surprising Happiness Perks You Get From Exercise

Posted on February 2, 2016 in Fun by Sandra Bienkowski

We all know it’s good for you, but here are eight more compelling reasons to move your body.

Even if you’ve never experienced the elusive runner’s high, you probably know exercise can make you happier. Scientific research has shown there are countless connections between mind and body; to simplify a complicated process: exercise boosts dopamine and other chemicals in the brain that make us feel happier. What’s more, many kinds of exercise can put us in a wonderful “flow” state, which is one of the hallmarks of well-being, according to positive psychology.Beyond happy chemicals, though, here are eight more surprising ways exercise makes us happier.

1. Leads to achievements

When we have a goal, we become more engaged with life and excited about the future. Whether it’s jogging your first mile without stopping or exercising three times a week, having a goal initially sparks enthusiasm, and then making progress toward that goal really fuels our commitment and makes us feel good. It may even motivate us to plan and accomplish other goals!

2. Creates “me” time

Picture your exercise time as a mini-retreat for some healthy “me” time. We often think of “me” time as sitting by a fire with a cup of tea or reading a book, but a good sweat session can help you let go of stress, increase your energy and think with clarity. Even on those days when you aren’t in the mood to move, you will always feel better after you exercise, because when you feel fully charged, it’s much easier to be happy.

Read the rest of my article on Live Happy: 8 Surprising Happiness Perks You Get From Exercise

 

Sandra Bienkowski is a nationally-published writer, a social media content expert and the owner of The Media Concierge, a company dedicated to creating professional content for thought leaders, authors, and business executives. Sandra worked as the columns editor for SUCCESS magazine, and is a contributing editor to the national newsstand magazine, Live Happy.