Motivating Yourself to Exercise: Do it for Your Mind and Productivity Levels
The other day, The Boy and I got into a chat about exercising, and his lack of exercising lately. On that note, I haven’t been no Superwoman lately either. It’s just been so nice outside and I’ve been “busy.”
Anyway, our conversation led to me preaching to him reasons to go back to the gym, and no it’s not because he has a beer belly. (That would be a whole ‘nother story, but fortunately that’s not the case and I’m not a nagging girlfriend). Rather, I was stressing the importance of exercising for your mental health.
Yes, I said it. While it may be shocking to many, one of the top reasons I exercise is in fact for my mental health, in simpler terms: my sanity. I won’t lie: in college the main reason I worked out was to strive for Victoria Secret model-esque legs, Jessica Alba’s abs, and That Girl’s tush in the latest issue of Women’s Health. I exercised every day to hopelessly achieve these unattainable goals.
Now, a few years later, I’m quite happy with my not-so-perfect body, and now see the importance in exercising for other reason’s aside from physique. It amazes me how much 60 minutes of yoga, a 30 minute run, or a quick cycle of intervals can do for your mind.
Suddenly, everything begins to make sense and life seems “OK” again. Exercise helps you forget about that horrible conversation with your boss at work, or that stupid fight you got in with your boyfriend. It helps set your day the right way, and end it even better. It encourages you to go that extra mile, and helps you focus during hours spent at the cubicle. All in all, exercise keeps you sane.
So next time you need an excuse to hit the gym, forget about your dream of a perfect butt, and think about that little thing called mental health for a sec. That alone should inspire you to lace up those sneaks!
Do you take time to focus on your mental health? What’s your exercise routine like?
