Published February 13, 2025
Can exercise really be as effective as therapy? Yes, it can be. I am living, breathing proof of it.
Everyone knows that exercise is good for us. I don’t need to go into the scientific details because we all know how important exercise is to our cardiovascular health and muscular system. It’s been engrained in our minds since childhood.
However, it is also just as important for our mental health. Endorphins are natural mood boosters produced by our brains during exercise. Some benefits of exercise-induced endorphins include improvement in mood and emotional regulation, a reduction in the degree of stress and anxiety, and a boost in energy levels.
Here’s my saga. I was deep in crisis after my husband passed away. I’m planning a funeral. I’m worried sick about my kids. Many family members and friends were at our house. People were bringing over meals. Of course, I appreciated all of it, more than I can ever express. I will never forget how kind and helpful people were. However, it was total chaos for weeks. Can you picture this? I’m guessing it sounds familiar.
I remember feeling a strong urge to run. I’ve always been active, but I thought to myself how the heck am I going to work out during the midst of dealing with a tragedy? I hadn’t been eating well, I was exhausted, so it seemed absolutely insane that I would want to exercise.
But the first run I did, which was a few days after the funeral, was truly exhilarating! The best way I can describe it is that I felt like I was shedding my skin. The anger, sadness, and pain were pouring out of me with every ounce of sweat. It felt liberating!
I gradually got back into a consistent workout routine. Some of you might be thinking “what was she doing when much more important tasks had to be taken care of” or “working out would be the last thing on my mind.” But you know what? We have to take care of ourselves first in order to take care of others. It’s like the oxygen mask instructions given on airplanes….put yours on first, then put it onto a child.
If you had a prior workout routine, go back to it as soon as possible. I guarantee you will feel better! If you aren’t usually one who exercises, then try different things until you discover one you like. Whether it’s running, walking, cycling, swimming, yoga, barre, pilates, bootcamps, kickboxing, jazzercise, aerobics, dance…..there are so many options out there!
I personally love my Peloton treadmill and bike. I have to clarify that I am not being paid by Peloton to promote how awesome they are. But Peloton has changed my life! From the fantastic instructors to the vast array of programming, I can truly attest that it has done wonders for me not only physically, but just as important it has helped me so much mentally.
What are some of the classes I take, you ask? Well, I take many treadmill classes as well as a myriad of strength classes. Peloton also offers cycling, yoga, meditation, barre, bootcamps, and a variety of other programs. The instructors are great! They are extremely motivational, and they inspire me to do my best. Click Peloton to view the awesome array of classes offered.
Without any doubts, exercise has aided in my healing and recovery. My mind is clear, I sleep well, and I feel strong. I ran my first half marathon that first year and have done a few more races since then. I used the hardship to fuel me. Think about it…that energy has to go somewhere. I genuinely believe that keeping active has been a coping mechanism for me.
Exercise can be a healthy way to reduce stress and anxiety. Sweating is almost like a reset for the mind and body. I want to be healthy and to be around as long as possible to enjoy life with my kids and my future grandkids. I don’t even think of exercise as an option, instead it’s become a way of life for me. It’s like brushing my teeth or showering. It’s something I have to do. It has become a part of my day.
Again, there isn’t a sponsorship from Peloton to promote how incredible they are. I personally love it so much that I want you to know about it. And I’m not saying you must do Peloton classes. Just get out there and move! Your mind and body will thank you for it.
Movement can be healing. As I said in the beginning, I am proof! I am a living, breathing example to show how exercise can change the mind, body, and soul. Maybe for some, it’s enough. For others, try it in conjunction with therapy. I promise that you won’t regret taking care of yourself!
I will leave you with this. It was about a month after my husband’s death. I was taking a Kirsten Ferguson (Instagram @iamkirstenferguson) outdoor run on the Peloton app when about halfway through it, she said that after something bad, maybe something beautiful could be on the other side of the rainbow. I will always remember where I was at that exact moment. There were trees surrounding me, and it was a beautiful sunny day. I started bawling! Yep, I was running and crying at the same time. What a sight I must have been to those driving by!
What works for you? Please share so we can all learn from each other’s experiences. Message me at inquiry@sincerelyjulie.com or find me on Instagram @sincerely_julie_joyful_living.
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