We all know the fitness is good for us… We know it can help with a bunch of health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, obesity and high blood pressure… But what most of us don’t know about how working out is that it gives us a happiness boost, too!   (I know some of you are probably sitting there thinking...”Nope, not me!” Remembering how often you’ve driven to the gym in a cranky mood after a long day).  However, it’s scientifically proven that fitness, in fact, leads to a greater amount of happiness.  So, although it may seem like the last thing you want to do, here are 5 reasons why exercise will put a smile on that pretty face of yours:

1. Fitness Leads to Greater Confidence: Working out obviously leads to a more toned, healthy body.  When we look good, we feel good.  But it’s more than just the physical change in your muscles that help with this confidence boost.  Exercising also leads to healthier skin and hair.  The sweat released from your pores helps rid of trapped dirt and oils!  It also reduces bloat and puffiness, wards of wrinkles and gives your skin an extra boost (which is why you get that post-workout glow)!
   
   
2. Exercise Releases “Happy” Chemicals: It’s important to note that exercise not only helps us physically, but also emotionally. Working out releases endorphins, which heighten feelings of optimism and satisfaction… A.K.A. they make you happy, as noted so eloquently in the clip below from Legally Blonde:
   
   
   
   Elle Woods knew what she was talking about! But seriously, after a stressful day, exercise can help relieve your mind and your body and give you clarity about what you’re dealing with in your life.  It’s true! Exercise actually makes people smarter.  Prove it to yourself: try working out for a little bit and within the first 15 minutes afterward, do something creative or challenging, and I bet you’ll see a difference in how well you work!
   
   
3. Working Out Fights Depression & Anxiety: Not only does exercise release endorphins, but it also reduces adrenaline and cortisol, which amplify feelings of anxiety, stress and tension.  Warming up your body temperature during a good workout actually has a calming effect on your nerves.  Not to mention, taking time for yourself to let your mind focus on the exercise, rather than those aspects of your life that are bringing you down, can be effective in fighting depression.  Fun fact…Bosses who don’t find time for fitness tend to be more stressed and lash out at their employees, rather than bosses who do find the time to exercise. (Don’t be the grumpy boss! Or employee!)
   
   
4. Fitness CAN Be Fun: Turn your workout into a social activity… Take a zumba class with your girlfriends, go to the gym with your hubby, take your baby for a walk in the park—do anything that will increase your heart rate, get you sweating and make it enjoyable! Often, fitness is categorized as boring, painful and hard.  Don’t let it be.  Do something that you enjoy and that you look forward to.  You’ll see a difference in yourself, your mind and your body!
   
   
5. Exercising Helps with Success: Exercising is the perfect way to drive your ambition.  There’s no better feeling than setting a goal and fulfilling it, and working out can get you there.  Set a weight goal, make a plan to get toned by a special occasion, establish a deadline for when you hope to see a change…and watch as you begin achieving your aspirations.  This will lead to a greater feeling of success in your life, and in turn, will help you attain a better quality of life overall.

 
So there you have it, laid out right in front of you! Fitness is a key factor in your happiness!

Now tell me, how has exercising helped you?  What changes have you seen after your workouts?

Let me know in the comments below!

Xx, Vanessa

PS.  If you’re struggling with the Baby Blues like I was, perhaps exercise can help you, too! It was definitely a positive for me.

Photo: Self.com
Source: Livestrong.com, MayoClinic.com