What Are the Non-Weight Related Benefits of Regular Exercise?
Exercise brings so much more that the idea of movement for the purpose just weight loss. While social media influencers often spotlight workouts aimed at changing appearance, the real magic of exercise lies in its wide-ranging benefits that boost your overall wellness and daily life. In this blog, we’ll dive into some of these benefits.
Before we dive in, we want to highlight that every form of movement to counts! Whether you prefer workout classes, strength training, yoga in your living room, hiking, or a simple walk, all of these activities offer fantastic benefits. Don’t hesitate to try something new—you might discover a new favorite!
Let’s explore four non-weight-related benefits of regular exercise!
Improved Mood
Regular physical activity can uplift your mood by releasing endorphins, the “feel-good” neurotransmitters in your brain. It also helps release happy hormones such as dopamine and suppresses hormones that cause stress and anxiety. It’s not just about feeling good during the workout; exercise can serve as a therapeutic escape from daily worries and anxious thoughts. Whether you’re battling stress, feeling down, or simply need a mental reset, moving your body can provide a sense of emotional release and clarity. By the time you finish, you’ll likely feel more relaxed, rejuvenated, and mentally prepared to tackle whatever comes your way!
Improves Immune System
Studies from the National Library of Medicine have shown that joyful movement can reduce chronic disease risk by supporting blood sugar regulation, improving cardiovascular health, and reducing stress levels. Staying active helps boost your immune system by mobilizing immune cells, giving your body added protection against illnesses.
Improves Sleep
Quality sleep is essential for our overall well-being as it allows our bodies to heal, promotes tissue repair, and supports optimal brain function. Regular exercise plays a role in promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety, which in turn can improve your ability to fall asleep quickly and enjoy deeper sleep throughout the night.
Allows us to Connect with Ourselves and Others
Exercise is a fantastic way to connect with others, whether it’s joining a fun fitness class or taking a leisurely stroll with friends. These social boosts can really lift your spirits and make your fitness journey even more enjoyable. Also, exercising outdoors provides a chance to connect with both yourself and nature. Research from MDPI indicates that walking in nature can reduce mental distress, boost your sense of purpose, and cultivate a more positive perspective on life.
Our Approach
At Nutrition Braved, we believe in the Health at Every Size (HAES) approach for all our patients. This philosophy celebrates the natural variety in body sizes and emphasizes acceptance, without judging health solely based on weight. Our focus is on lifestyle choices, hormonal equilibrium, and improving your overall quality of life. We’re all about discovering how movement can bring joy and a sense of empowerment and connection to your body. It’s about embracing what feels right and brings you happiness, making it a special part of your day just for you. Let us guide you on a path to a healthier connection with your body, promoting well-being in all aspects of your life—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
We always recommend exploring this topic individually with your dietitian and therapist, as those in eating disorder recovery might need to take certain precautions with integrating movement back into their life. This can also be true for those who have had a disordered relationship with movement and overexercising in the past. Reach out to one of our dietitians to learn more about joyful movement and recovery.
