We all enter the gym doors with baggage. Maybe it was a day full of meetings, tough decisions, and not so pleasant conversations. Maybe you got stuck in traffic on the way to your session, because we all know what a joy Grantline Road is. Maybe you’re flying in on 2 wheels to leap out of your car and jump into dynamic flexibility. Maybe your kids were sick, or were just little heathens, and you are at your wits end. Maybe you fought with your spouse, forgot gym clothes, not feeling 100% physically; the to-do list is long and the anxiety is high.
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Inhale.
Exhale.
You are here.
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So often, we see our members bring the stress of their day into the gym. It is written all over their faces and body language. Hear me when I say, “I am so proud of you for still showing up!” You are right where you are supposed to be and I know without a doubt, you won’t be leaving with that same downcast look, or furrowed brow, after the workout. Not even when we have 5 minutes of burpees programmed for your session. (God bless everyone for completing Zone 1 workout in the first week of the month!)
How is this possible?
Study after study confirms that exercise is a proven strategy for overcoming stress and enhancing your overall well being. Exercise works like an antidepressant, increasing levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) like serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, thus boosting mood. Exercise prompts the release of endorphins, naturally-occurring opioids produced by the body.
Take care of your body, take care of your brain. Daily life and work might have you grinding your gears…but add on Christmas, family gatherings with weird Uncle Al, plus frequent shopping trips to the good ole Wal-Mart and the holiday stress is bound to eat you up. Do yourself a favor and keep showing up to the gym, you can thank us later.
Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people don’t kill their husbands.
El Woods; Legally Blonde