Her Source presents Wellness Wednesdays.

In the busy world that we live in, people often tend to make excuses for failing to hit the gym. We’re either too tired, don’t have enough time, or just have “better” things to do.

Well, I encourage you to take a look at exercise from a different perspective to motivate you to get up off your butt and break a sweat.

Those intimidated by the gym may think that “gym junkies” are incentivized to work out solely because they want to look good. Well, that may be part of it, as the “look good, feel good” mantra is real.

However, the reasons why you should make the time to routinely exercise lie far beneath the surface.

They include:

1) Exercise boosts energy.

This is one for all my fatigued laborers in the place. Feeling too tired to work out? Well, did you ever think that maybe the reason why you’re so tired in the first place could be because you never boost that heart rate? Get that oxygen and those nutrients into your muscles and build that endurance through regular exercise, so that way, you won’t be as exhausted on the job.

2) Exercise improves mood.

I’m a testament to this one. When I don’t regularly exercise, I tend to get down on myself. I’m not as motivated or happy to execute a task at hand. Well, folks, although we might think that our emotions are just in our mind, they also get stored in our muscles. In order to get them out, there’s only one thing we can do – sweat em out. Exercise also releases endorphins which cause the feelings of happiness and euphoria. In fact, exercise is so effective for generating happiness that it’s even been proven to alleviate symptoms in those who are clinically depressed. Yep. Why give that power to a pill when you can have it yourself?

3) Boost self-esteem and self-image.

Remember the “look good, feel good” mantra I mentioned? Well, here it is. Regardless of your age, shape or size, exercise is proven to elevate a person’s perception of his or her attractiveness and self-worth. I think it’s about that time to get on your treadmill and start feelin yourself … metaphorically speaking that is.

4) Boost brainpower.

Studies have proven that regular cardiovascular exercise generates new brain cells, and also creates a brain derived protein known as BDNF which helps with decision making and higher learning. Spandex = smarty pants.

5) Be more productive.

Research has indicated that those who work out more, DO more. If you’re feeling sedentary on the job, go outside for a walk, get that blood flowing again and get right back into the zone.

6) Boost creativity.

Studies show that a good gym session can boost creativity for up to 2 hours post-workout. If you’re a writer experiencing writer’s block, an artist feeling uninspired, or a mathematician stuck on a problem – the solution might just be one jog away.

7) Exercise puts the spark back into your sex life.

Of course I had to make this one lucky number 7. Did you know that regular physical activity can lead to enhanced arousal for women? Or that men who regularly exercise are less likely to have erectile dysfunction?? Well, if you didn’t know, you learned today. If things have cooled down in the bedroom, hit the gym, warm that body up and bring the heat back to the sack. And remember, couples who sweat together, stay together.

If that doesn’t motivate you to hit the gym, I don’t know what else will.

So go lace up those running shoes, and stay tuned for more wellness advice from Her Source.

By: Alana Johnson
@TheLadyLana