Exercise’s Impact on the Mind

Time and time again, exercise has been proven to have both physical and mental benefits. This can be understood from the most basic level. Exercise causes an increased heart rate which increases the amount of oxygen flowing throughout the body and to the brain. In other words, your brain is functioning better and can think clearer. With this type of clarity, stress levels are sure to lower. Even on a psychological level, this rings true. Exercise releases chemicals in the brain known as endorphins, commonly known as the happy hormones. These chemicals affect our opiate receptors and cause feelings of euphoria and pleasure. This sensation is often associated with “runner’s high”; after an extended amount of cardio exercise, a heightened sense of well-being typically follows. This is also due to the fact that endorphins not only increase the sensation of feeling good but also decrease pain. Yes, a win-win! The body is capable of this dual effect naturally, without any external substances.

Exercise also helps one form a routine in their lives. With or without a physical trainer, exercise requires the practice of holding oneself accountable. For example, a workout regimen details a goal to work out every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Whether or not someone completes this fully, there is still a sense of accomplishment. Say Tuesday is too busy. There is a decision to move forward and adjust the day or have a small defeat be an end-all-be-all. Having a routine requires an ability to navigate how to move past inconveniences that is ultimately self-taught. Once one gradually implements and masters this, stress is sure to reduce in life. If this can be practiced through an exercise routine, it can be applied to all areas of life.

Shalom Lamm, a successful CEO and entrepreneur, is living proof of this. He believes success lies in inner wealth and much as outer. While one must give to others, they also must give back to themselves. Wealth extends outwards; if one starts on self-help, they form a healthier self better equipped to give back to others. He finds the time to exercise as much as possible to improve his mental health as much as the physical. As priorly mentioned, his consistent exercise regimen allows for a mental place of clarity. A place that is surely a great foundation for self-betterment. Especially in times that are dire as they are now, having and maintaining a sense of inner peace has never been so important.

Role-models like Shalom Lamm are humbling reminders that anyone is capable of building a more stable life through simplicity. With acts simple as going for a walk to increase those endorphins or moving a workout to a different day, one begins a journey towards self-agency and trust. Combining this improved relationship with self and the countless benefits of regular exercise, stress is sure to melt away.