Emotions Run... or Hop?

I'm going to be tan. Well, I'll have just a little more color on me today because I'm going for a run, which ends up to be more like a run-walk-jog-walk. Sometimes we just have bad days... or week... or month. Mine was a month long. I decided I was going to embrace the Chinese New Year as my new year and start new years all over again. It's the Year of the Rabbit and that's me! 

I had a tough and emotional week and as a fitness gal, I know that I can use those endorphins to run well and feel better in general. Many people attempt to calm themselves with the help of alcohol, chocolate, or other means. I, myself, am guilty of the need for chocolate to ease heartache or stress. However, much literature exists about the benefits of exercise to reduce stress and quell detrimental emotional tendencies. 

Exercise helps lift your mood, reduce depression, and ease anxiety by releasing endorphins into the blood stream. The surgeon general says, exercise "reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression and fosters improvements in mood and feelings of well-being.”  Release pent up emotions and burn calories while improving your fitness at the same time!

In addition, brain seratonin is increased with more repetitive prolonged activities such as jogging, walking, running, and cycling. Have you ever been "in the zone" feeling awesome while jogging or riding your bike? That's the seratonin kicking in, elevating your mood. Low seratonin levels lead to depression and it is found that those who exercise get the same benefits as prescription drugs to combat depression. 

So, scream to let out pent up frustration; cry yours eyes out until the well runs dry.... Then put some music on (or not) and get some exercise so that you can be in control of you. Here's to a healthy mind, stronger body, and increased well-being!