Do you ever get the feeling that you just to want to escape the four walls and get outside? It’s not unusual for me to feel like this and when I do, I know that I am craving space to put my head into some kind of order.

The only choice for me in this situation is exercising outside, whether that we be a walk, bike ride or run. I can pretty much guarantee that it is only 15 minutes into my chosen exercise that my mood will have lifted significantly, what is the reason for this?

Exercise – when you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain. Endorphins also trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine and that can be accompanied by a positive and energizing outlook on life.

Getting outside – outdoor exercise provides a mental health boost, mood is improved and depression is reduced alongside an improvement in self-esteem and connecting with Mother Nature.

Spending time alone – this quote sums up why this is important far better than I can.

“Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.”

― Eleanor Brownn

Exercise for me is a win-win for body and mind, I hope I also pass this on to my clients.

A guest blog by

Emma Goodman of Emma Fitness a personal trainer based in Maidstone.