Dec 14 2008
Another excuse to take an hour (or 2) for yourself!
Do you know that exercise is one of the best physical stress reduction techniques? Besides the other benefits one can enjoy from a regular exercise routine–the improvement in one’s health and appearance–studies have shown that exercise releases endorphins! Endorphins are the body’s little treat. When endorphins are released into the blood stream, they provide a sense of elation! As a mom, I know how difficult it is to find an hour in the day to do something enjoyable for one’s self. A lot of times, if I have an extra hour to spare, I’ll try to catch up on laundry, shopping or reading. That seems logical, at least in the short-term. However, these types of chores, while they must get done, are not “me time.” And while sometimes, I would love to take that hour to plop in front of the television and watch a mindless reality show, I don’t feel so good about myself after doing so. Lately I’ve been treating my work-outs as scheduled appointments that I cannot miss. Sometimes I go to the gym and really sweat up a storm and other times, I just take a brisk walk. I’ve even been known to do squats and biceps curls WHILE watching mindless reality television! I’ve even “bench-pressed” my son. We play peek-a-boo while we do it. Either way, the result is the same. I feel refreshed, calm and confident. I also think I deliver a better work product. It’s no mistake that some savvy employers offer corporate exercise programs for employees. When exercising, the speed of blood flow to the brain increases, making one more mentally alert and less prone to anxiety and depression. Everyone is different and as always, it is best to consult a professional if you have any underlying issues that are contraindicated for beginning (or increasing) a fitness program. We all make sacrifices but we shouldn’t make sacrifices when it comes to our health and well-being. Find the time. You’ll be glad you did!
Good Post! Sometimes I conside “me time” the breaks I take to walk to the bathroom and back.
I guess that counts–sort of!:) One of my good friends asked for 10 minutes alone in the bathroom for her birthday!