There is much emphasis today on mindfulness, wellbeing and happiness there’s not a day goes by when you don’t see a quote which reads something like this:

While we may simply scroll past a variety of positive quotes every day, there is a lot we can take from such messages; the key thing for us is that exercise makes you happier.

And here are 6 very good reasons why:

1. It releases happy chemicals

And that chemical is dopamine, AKA the ‘feel good hormone’. Dopamine is associated with feelings of euphoria, bliss, motivation, and concentration. What’s the best way to increase dopamine production? You guessed it; exercise.

As we get older, we begin to lose our stores of dopamine which is why it is so important to restock the store as much as possible.

Happy chemicals = happy you

2. It reduces stress

We’ve all had those days when we drag our asses to the gym after a shocking day at work, tired, grumpy and not feeling up for a good workout. An hour later, we leave the gym with a spring our step and the issues of the day seem to have thawed somewhat.

That’s because when you exercise, you’re actually subjecting yourself to a low-level form of stress by raising your heart rate and triggering a burst of hormonal changes. This gets your body used to a certain level of stress, which makes us better at handling it.

Less stress = a happier, healthier life

3. It gives you more energy

Here’s a question for you…

When you decided to flop on the sofa, exhausted from work, did you feel less tired than the time that you instead chose to head out for a brisk walk?

I would suggest you felt better by heading out and getting some fresh air, am I right?

No matter how exhausted you think you are, there’s no doubt you’ll feel more energized after your workout than you did before it.

More energy = greater happiness

4. It boosts your confidence

No matter your size, everyone has days when they hate their body and this can really get you down.

When you start to exercise and see your body changing shape and toning, that feeling of self-doubt can quickly change. Because exercise will not only make you feel better about how you look, it can also make you feel stronger, more independent, and more confident.

Body confidence = increased happiness

5. It eases anxiety

Whether you are a long-term anxiety sufferer or have periods of anxiety related to certain situations, exercise is a perfect release.

Exercise provides an immediate mood boost and takes your mind away from anxieties; the more you exercise, the better you’ll feel.

Exercise = mood boost

6. It helps insomnia

Regular exercise is proven to improve sleep patterns; the more you exercise, the more tired you are at bedtime, and you’re well rested to tackle the next day after a good night’s sleep.

Zzzzzz = a happy, rested you

If you don’t read another motivational quote today, please read this one: