Holistic Benefits of Exercise

A good exercise program is one that will build your body in three areas: endurance, flexibility, and strength.  Exercise strengthens our bones and keeps our bodies young.  Exercising on a regular basis preserves and enhances our capacity to work, adapt and enjoy life.  As you increase your body’s ability to do more demanding things, you will find your normal activities much more comfortable and pleasant.

Numerous studies have supported the idea of regular exercise as being beneficial to overall well-being and it has been proven to be one of the most powerful tools at our disposal in the battles to remain physically and mentally well.  A recent study found that physically fit adults had a greater sense of personal accomplishment and more self-efficacy. Another study found that even better posture resulted in increased self-confidence.

Exercise is an effective treatment for depression and anxiety and is the simplest and most powerful lifestyle therapeutic tool at our disposal. It is important for managing low mood and stress.  Exercising as part of a group is of great benefit to those who are struggling with depression, as many lose interest in meeting other people, due to fatigue and lack of enjoyment.  If these individuals interact socially during walking, jogging, dancing, swimming, going to the gym, and so on, this can only have a positive impact on them.