Exercise is my anti-depressant. There are many ways that exercise improves mood.
1) You are more physically fit and thus feel better about your physical appearance.
2) Exercise releases endorphins which make you feel generally happy and at peace.
3) You have more energy when you exercise.
4) You feel better when you accomplish something difficult
5) It jumps starts your metabolism so you don't feel down and sluggish.
I really could go on and on about exercise. It has been proven time and time again that those who exercise routinely are happier people!
SUGGESTIONS
1) Exercise first thing in the morning.
2) Find a form of exercise you enjoy doing
*sports, videos, gym, walking, running, interactive video games like the Wii, Yoga, Pilates, treadmill, etc.
3) Exercise at least 30 minutes 5 days a week. Don't beat yourself up if you miss a day, just do your best to increase your activity level from what it is now.
4) Alternate cardio with strength building. I usually do weight training Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. I do some form of cardio on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
5) Change your exercise routine at least every month so you don't plateau.
6) Ingest extra protein before or after you exercise. (See my smoothie recipes under "food for thought")
7) Get your family involved. You are their example.
8) Don't feel guilt if you exercise! Either exercise before your kids are awake or give them an activity to do while you exercise. It will be hard at first, but kids can learn that when you are exercising, they are to behave and do their quiet activity (or join you!) You will be a better mother, father, spouse, worker, etc. if you take time to exercise. I am more productive the rest of the day when I begin my day with exercise.
Why Exercise Videos Rock
1-Don't have to drive to a gym
2-You can sweat your guts out and no one will know!
3-It's cheap compared to a gym membership (especially if you borrow them from your library)
4-You can wear whatever you want
5-You don't need a babysitter (my toddler joins me, my baby crawls around our feet)
6-If you are a self-motivator, you will work out more often because it is so convenient!
My favorites: Turbo jam, Chalean Extreme, P90x, Ten minute trainer, Insanity
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