Working hard to stay in shape and eat healthily can feel like quite a chore sometimes, particularly when you're trying to fit it into an already busy lifestyle. However, taking the time to pursue great physical health can result in a number of extremely valuable wellbeing benefits that far outweigh the effort involved. Here are just a few.
Improved Mood
An increase in physical activity prompts the body to increase the rate of production of endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin and other hormones and naturally occurring chemicals that make us feel great. That's why many people find exercise so addictive. The more you work out, the more of these hormones will be produced within your system. As a result, many specialists recommend exercise as part of a treatment plan to tackle anxiety and depression, in addition to other mental health issues.
Reduced Stress Levels
Endorphins also tackle stress and improve your ability to sleep soundly. What's more, getting outside and going for a run or a cycle ride is a great way to take yourself out of pressured situations and tackle the claustrophobic sensations that sometimes come with stress. Physical exertion is often cathartic too, and all of the above factors will help you to return to your office or home with a clearer head, having thought things through in a different environment.
Higher Self Esteem
If you exercise regularly, you'll find yourself hitting milestones quickly and effectively. Whether those milestones are the ability to lift more, to shave a little time off your personal best, to exert yourself for longer without getting tired or simply to look a little trimmer, the sense of achievement will be huge. This will boost your confidence and encourage you to keep going.
Fewer Expenses
One of the biggest global causes of stress and anxiety is money troubles, and it's definitely cheaper to be healthy. For a start, cooking fresh, modestly-portioned meals from scratch is far less expensive than eating regular takeout meals or microwaveable snacks. As a fit person, you're also less likely to rely on public transport or gas-guzzling cars for shorter journeys, which will also save you a great deal annually, and, of course, if your healthcare system isn't heavily subsidized, pursuing good health will help you to keep your medical bills down in the future. Even your insurance premiums are likely to be lower, as you'll be at a far lower risk of conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Of course, it is possible to sell a life insurance policy by way of a viatical settlement if you do fall terminally ill. You can estimate the value of your life insurance policy in seconds, then transfer it for a cash sum to a new beneficiary who will receive a payout upon your passing.
A Longer, More Comfortable Life
By putting in the work now, you're likely to save a huge amount of physical and mental discomfort further down the line. If you keep on top of your fitness and nutrition, the chances are that, in the future, you'll be more mobile than you would have otherwise been. Your chances of a life-altering or debilitating illness will be significantly reduced too, allowing you greater comfort and fewer complications well into your later years.
