Are you ever stressed? Do you struggle to fall asleep at night, or wake up tight and tense? Do you sometimes have zero energy to get homework done? If yes, keep reading.
The answer to your problems can be found in exercise. If you’re thinking, “I don’t like to sweat, I don’t workout and I’m not about to,” the first thing you need to do is change your mindset. Put an end to the idea that working out can only happen in a gym or on a track. You can do a great workout in your dorm room, living room, that park down the street or even in the quiet study room at the library (please try this and let us know how it went). So stop thinking that exercise is this crazy, awful thing. Instead, follow these suggestions to help you create a workout routine that fits you and who knows, you may actually enjoy!
Find out what keeps you from working out and think of an alternative. If you don’t feel comfortable in the gym or running isn’t your thing, exercise in your own space, no matter how small. (Check out #2 for workouts you can easily do at home.) Don’t even know where to start? There are endless workout plans on Pinterest, Instagram, blogs, and the world wide web in general. Mix and match different routines until you find one you like.
Create a workout for yourself that’s relaxing, exciting and more importantly, one you can stick with. Change things up when you want, challenge yourself with more reps, target different areas and be open to new things. Here are some exercises you can start with, right in the comfort of your dorm room!
Morning person? A morning exercise session is a great way to start your day. It boosts your energy and can help in creating a positive outlook on the day. If you come home mentally drained, tired and/or in a bit of a mood; drink a big glass of water, throw some workout clothes on and get to it. Not only will exercising boost your serotonin activity—a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation—it will give you energy, aid in relaxation and center you. You can even work out right before bed. Doing some basic yoga poses will relieve some of the day’s tension in your muscles; helping you sleep like a baby and wake up fresh. You can follow these poses to start.
If you create a habit out of working out, not only will your body benefit, but your overall health will improve. The way working out makes you feel will make you want to continue working out, I swear! Your level of stress hormones will reduce, serotonin activity in your brain will be boosted, you will become more alert, concentrated, and enjoy improved sleep quality. Plus, exercise helps prevent high blood pressure and combat other serious health conditions.
Exercising doesn’t have to be a chore or a means to an end. It isn’t just about lifting weights or running on a track, it’s about finding a fit you, that fits you.
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