For this years second challenge I decided I would set myself the task of doing a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 times a week. I’m sure this doesn’t sound like much to some people, but I’m a lazy cowbag most of the time! Although I didn’t find the actually exercising an issue, it was finding the time and energy to stick to the challenge.

The reason I chose this particular challenge was because of the well-known benefits of exercise in regards to our mental health. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, serotonin and dopamine – all of which are often referred to as the ‘happy hormones’. Therefore, the more regular physical activity we do, the bigger impact these hormones have on our brains. Personally, I know I don’t do enough exercise, despite knowing how beneficial it can be for me mentally. I always find an excuse or convince myself I’ll ‘do it another day’. After doing this challenge, its reminded me how important it is to continue to push myself to exercise, even when I don’t feel up to it. I am lucky enough to be physically able to exercise regularly and I know that this isn’t an option to some people, and therefore I need to take advantage of a completely free and effective therapy.

I am making a pledge to myself, especially during the uncertain times we are currently facing, that I will make changes to my lifestyle in regards to exercise. Whether that be a daily walk, or try a HIIT workout on YouTube if we have to stay indoors. Or in times of most anxiety, yoga is always available online to try and calm my overactive mind. I am hoping that the more I introduce it into my normal (albeit abnormal currently!) routine, the less it feels like such a chore.