The Transformative Emotional Benefits of Exercise: A Personal Journey

For the last 15-16 years, I was quite overweight, smoked pot and cigarettes, and drank beer. I failed to take care of my nutrition, and it all became a vicious circle. Being frustrated and overweight made me lethargic, and I felt almost depressed. Even small walks or household chores seemed to consume me infinitely and were avoided. However, last year at the age of 51, my first Covid lockdown gave me the opportunity to find my way back to a healthy lifestyle and start daily exercise. This journey of transformation turned out to be far more than just a physical transformation; it also profoundly impacted my emotional and mental state.

A Journey to a Healthier Self

I began by running daily at a body weight of 111 kg and a body fat percentage of around 31%. By maintaining daily discipline and adjusting my diet to consume fewer carbs and generally reducing caloric intake, I managed to significantly reduce my weight and body fat to 81 kg and around 8-9% body fat by December 2020.

This journey of weight loss and lifestyle change had an incredible impact on my emotional and mental well-being. I could clearly perceive a drastic change in my mood and overall outlook. What once seemed like a monotonous routine became enjoyable, and I embraced every opportunity to stay active. For instance, I now walk to the grocery store instead of driving and use the stairs more often in my building. I even incorporate a third workout session into my day while working from home during lunchtime.

Impact on Mood and Mental State

Physical activities like walking, biking, dancing, yoga, and Tai Chi can help reduce feelings of depression and stress. They enhance your mood and overall emotional well-being, and increase your energy levels. Better sleep is another benefit that follows. All of these positive effects are key components of a healthier, happier lifestyle.

One of the most noticeable changes in my life is a new, positive outlook. Negatives and challenges, such as the current global health crisis, now seem to brush off me like dirt on a lotus. Despite the ongoing challenges, I remain relatively unaffected and carry on with my daily routines without stress. Each morning, I run 6 kilometers, and in the evening, I do weights workouts in the garage. On weekends, I add longer uphill bicycle tours to my routine.

In my experience, I've never felt happier, more satisfied, and balanced in my entire life. My transformation is not just about physical improvement; it's about embracing a healthier and more fulfilling life, both physically and emotionally.

Physical Activities and their Benefits

Physical activities play a crucial role in not only improving physical health but also enhancing emotional well-being. They come with a host of benefits, including:

Reducing Depression and Stress: Engaging in regular physical activities can significantly reduce feelings of depression and stress. Exercise helps produce endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Enhancing Mood and Well-being: Regular physical activity can improve your overall mood and emotional well-being. It reduces symptoms of mild to moderate depression and anxiety and improves self-esteem. Increasing Energy Levels: While some people think that physical activity might lead to a decrease in energy, the opposite is true. Regular exercise can boost your energy levels and improve your physical performance. Improving Sleep: Physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and deepen your sleep. Moderate exercise may help you stay asleep longer and improve the overall quality of your sleep.

So, if you're looking to improve your emotional well-being, enhancing your mood, and feeling more energized, there's no better way than getting physically active.