Everyone knows there are benefits to living a healthy lifestyle. Frequent physical activity can lower your weight and prevent health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Most people also know that exercise releases endorphins in your brain which can improve your overall mood and energy levels. Most will even say exercise relieves stress. People who exercise often have better overall health, look better, and are happier than those who don’t. Just about everyone has heard about these benefits of exercise, and there is no denying that these are great reasons to hit the gym. A lot of doctors will tell you that just thirty minutes of exercise a day can have immeasurable benefits to your overall health and quality of life. However, exercise can benefit your body and mind in ways that you have probably never considered. Three little known benefits of regular exercise:
1. Exercise improves your memory
Exercising your body can also mean exercising your mind. Physical activity increases blood flow in your body, which will increase the amount of oxygen in your brain. Increased oxygen in your brain reduces the occurrence of diseases that can lead to memory loss. Exercise also increases the production of essential brain chemicals and can even protect your brain cells. Working out also helps you sleep better. The mind always works better when it is well-rested. The next time you get bogged down trying to learn something new you might want to try going for a walk. It might help you remember what you have learned.
2. Exercise improves your skin
Most people find this one a little hard to believe, but it’s true. Exercise increases blood flow in your body, providing more oxygen to your cells. That includes your skin cells. This can mean your produce newer, fresher cells more often. Also, exercise can help flush toxins out of your body. Meaning your outward appearance is clean and fresh. Exercise also reduces stress. According to dermatologists in NYC, stress can worsen skin conditions like acne and rosacea. Therefore, a little exercise can go a long way to younger, more radiant looking skin.
3. Exercise can improve chronic illnesses
Those with chronic illnesses such as asthma, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and even chronic back pain may shy away from exercise thinking it will worsen their conditions. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Asthma sufferers find that regular exercise decreases the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. People with arthritis can find relief from joint stiffness and even some pain by following doctor recommended exercise routines. Exercise can strengthen muscles around affected joints that can definitely help with pain. Increased blood flow helps with fibromyalgia pain, and exercise helps strengthen back muscles which can relieve pain and pressure. Of course, those with chronic illnesses should consult their care managers to determine what sort of exercise is best for them.