Few people appreciate the truly amazing benefits a little workout can give you. "Working out? Ugh- what a bore." Sure, but wait until you try some medium-to-high intensity exercise.
Aerobic exercise that gets your heart pumping releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones that are also released whenever you smile or laugh (except maybe an evil laugh X-) ). Depressed people can often find themselves feeling better after a workout. A friend of mine who had a problem with depression found that jumping on her trampoline would put her in a better mood without her even realizing it. One Sunday I was not in a terrific mood, but I played a brief game of Ultimate Frisbee after church and felt like I was floating on a cloud of joy. :) I had even lost! The game ended early before my team could catch up. On top of that I'd twisted my ankle. But something about the rigorous activity put me in a terrific mood.
So I don't know what's going on with you, but whatever it is, working out can probably make it better. Obesity- reduced by regular exercise (and a proper diet). Depression- temporarily warded off by a workout. Not a permanent fix, but it's the little victories that count. Grouchy mood- banished by activity. Weak or inflexible muscles- regular exercise is what you need to fix that! Low energy- believe it or not, a short run is extremely refreshing and invigorating. Boredom- play something outside and you can never again have an excuse to be bored! :D
-from your Ultimate Frisbee lover, Johanna
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