That is what I said, “I couldn’t get through the day without exercise.  I often look at people who tell me they never exercise with awe.  I can’t believe they are functioning at all!  I know I wouldn’t be!  Exercise is my go to stress reliever.

I hit the treadmill every day first thing in the morning.  This starts my day off  with a flow of  brain chemicals that will make my day great.  Exercise increases serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.  Serotonin will increase my energy levels to help me meet the challenges of my day and raise my spirits.  Dopamine sometimes called the “motivation brain chemical”  will get me going on that to-do-list.  Then there is norepinephrine which is going to help me get through my work day and improve the therapy sessions that I do.  Norepinephrine will help me stay alert and focused, increase my ability to concentrate, and help me retrieve information stored in my memory.  I normally walk for 40 minutes and try to arrange my day to make this happen.  I really don’t feel that I have time NOT to exercise.  If a day goes crazy and I can’t get my 40 minutes in, I still do what I can — 30, 20, 15, or even just 10.  It all benefits.

After work I use exercise as a transitional activity between work and home.  I may only walk around the block or do a little yoga.  My newest transitional activity is to turn on the music and dance in the living room for 3 songs.  If it has been a very stressful day I hit that treadmill again for 15 to 20 minutes.  It is wonderful to shift gears and add in a few endorphins to the brain chemistry.  Endorphins calm you, helping you to feel more tranquil and peaceful for the rest of your day.

I have on my pink shoes and I am heading out for a walk outside.  Exercising outdoors increases benefits and adds others.  Why not join me?  I know you don’t need it, but you might find that you function even better with it.