Mood Work Out
You probably spend more time thinking about going to the gym than actually doing so. Skip this common mental battle and recall how great you feel after you workout. Moving may be one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to improve your overall mood. Exercise plays a huge role in your mood because it "stimulates the production of endorphins," says Damon Roxas, national director of personal training at Crunch Fitness. When endorphins are released into your body, they naturally create feelings of well-being and relaxation. In addition, regular exercise jumpstarts your energy levels during the day and helps you sleep better at night, says Roxas. Use your mood to help motivate you to exercise. Roxas says that if you are angry you should try a kickboxing class or if you have high anxiety, relax your mind with yoga. Try new classes, machines or workout routines because "the more you know, the better the results, and the better your results, the better your mood," says Roxas. So, next time you hit that mental slump, don't drag it out by sitting on the couch--an endorphin boost maybe just a quick walk away.