Everyone reading this has probably once said, "I should exercise, but...," followed by something about being too tired or too busy. Why is it that we should, though? The usual answer is to lose weight or to stay in shape, but is all exercising has to offer really just combating the infamous "Freshman 15"? Absolutely not! It cannot be stressed enough--find a form that you genuinely enjoy, because it is that much easier for exercising to become a part of your weekly routine. With that being said, it is easy to fall into a slump during college. While it is very important to focus on your schoolwork, your job, and, eventually, your career, one thing you do not want to lack is balance. Finding a balance between your professional career, your health, your social life, and your overall happiness is what will direct you towards success. So, here is why exercising will actually help this process, rather than being just a timekiller!
1. Exercise reduces stress!
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), 70 percent of adults in the United States claim they experience stress every single day! With the pressures placed on us by a heavy course load, working extra hours in order to splurge on spring break, and friends and family, it can be extremely difficult to eliminate stress. However, while exercise may be one of the most underused forms of stress relief, it is the most recommended by healthcare professionals. The endorphins that are released from the brain are basically natural painkillers. A specific chemical that exercise increases drastically is norepinephrine, which is what moderates how the brain responds to stress. Thus, before studying for finals, squeeze in some gym time to avoid the end-of-the-semester anxiety attacks!
2. You'll sleep better!
As the National Sleep Foundation has stated, people who exercise at least 150 minutes a week are not only more alert during the day, but sleep significantly better at night. Say what? After a long day, it may seem best just to knock out on your bed (with books scattered everywhere and your phone on your face), but it has been shown that your long-term health will benefit from pushing through and getting in a good workout. Obviously, your body feels warm when you are working out, and this is because your core temperature is rising. Once it starts to cool down, you get tired. This makes it easier to fall asleep, and it gives you a much better rest than just sitting around all day. So, if you ever have a hard time sleeping, try working out about five hours before bedtime!
3. Exercise increases brainpower!
While the first two examples are indirect ways in which exercise contributes to better mental health, there are also direct factors that come into play. According to Harvard Health, the prefrontal cortex and medial temporal lobe, which are responsible for thinking and memory, have greater volume in those who are active. Working out promotes brain cell growth, and more intense routines are shown to increase brain-derived protein. This improves brain function, memory, and decision-making. Sounds like a nice run will help with that 4.0 this semester!
4. You'll get sh*t done!
A University of Georgia study showed that an increase in exercise from adults who were generally sedentary increased energy levels by 20 percent. While it may seem a little crazy because you are adding an extra activity into your already busy schedule, the energy boost will promote productivity! You're getting better sleep, you're less stressed, and you're retaining so much knowledge already, right? A healthy routine will help keep you organized because you're forcing yourself to manage your time effectively, and, thus, you will see yourself getting to bed on time rather than rushing through that five-page paper that's due at 11:59 p.m.! Getting things done and still having time for yourself sounds pretty great, huh?
5. You'll be confident!
It is obvious that exercising will make you lose inches and potentially look better, and we know now that it will also make you feel better. This right here can elevate your self-confidence. In the end, what truly matters is not how others see us, but how we see ourselves. Rather than comparing ourselves to unrealistic images, we can focus on our own potential. Feeling good from within will have its outward effects, and the opposite holds true as well. Therefore, a healthy mind leads to a healthy body and a healthy body leads to a healthy mind. A healthy you is a happy you!
