Exercise helps improve all aspects of your health, and with a few simple steps, you can use exercise to improve your mood, physical health, and academic performance.
Exercise not only boosts your immune system, but it can also be more effective than drugs at relieving pain, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving mood. It can improve sleep, encourage routine, and increase your sense of connection.
Exercise also improves brain processing, which can boost your academic performance. People who exercise regularly say they perform better, are more employable, and have higher levels of well-being, according to the largest university study of its kind.
1. Make small changes
Trying to do too much too soon can be overwhelming and frustrating. Instead make small changes like:
Consciously increase your daily steps or active minutes
Add a 10-minute yoga session when you wake up
Sitting while brushing teeth
2. Do something you enjoy
If you dread the thought of exercising, you're less likely to stick to it. There are many fun alternatives to what we think of as traditional exercise. You can also make it a social event: Research shows that exercising with a friend boosts motivation.
3. Pay attention to just one objective at once
Try not to compare yourself with others as this can reduce your motivation. Maybe you've always wanted to run a 5k, or you want to tone up.
Setting small goals along the way will help keep your motivation levels high, making it more likely you'l
