Physical Exercise
Why exercise?
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, studies have shown that when stress affects the brain, it affects the rest of the body also. The ADAA goes on to share that scientists have found that regular participation in aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease overall levels of tension, elevate and stabilize mood, improve sleep, and improve self-esteem. Because our brain has all these nerve connections innervated throughout our body, it makes sense that a healthy body could help an unhealthy mind. When we exercise or participate in moderate to intense energy expenditure, we produce endorphins. Endorphins are chemicals in the brain that act similarly to painkillers kind of like natural painkillers that lead to all the benefits mentioned before.
Lots of people find it really hard to go to the gym or exercise but luckily for college students there are a few great resources available. One example is the inclusion of a gym membership to a gymnasium that is always student friendly, offers fitness classes for any level, and has state-of-the-art machines. Most also have sport-specific areas or courts for sports like basketball, volleyball, soccer, racquetball, swim, badminton, ping-pong, running, etc. for students who prefer to get their exercise from sports rather than fitness machines or instruction. Another awesome way that students can get exercise is to enroll in PEX classes. These 1 credit classes are ones that focus on either a sport or recreational activities so you can have the accountability to stick to exercise for an entire semester.
College can be stressful but implementing exercise into your routine will help you mentally and physically be successful in your time at university.
If you want to look more into some exercise options mentioned, press any of the boxes below to start your fitness journey!
