Counsel #5 — Exercise

Picture: Counsel #5 — ExerciseCWe 44.1

Maybe you think you are too busy and stressed to exercise, but honestly, you’re too stressed NOT to exercise! The Mayo Clinic says, “Exercise has some direct stress-busting benefits. It pumps up your endorphins. Physical activity may help bump up the production of your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters.”^{[49]https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469}CWe 44.2

Here are some specific benefits of exercise:^{[50]https://www.askanadventistfriend.com/adventist-health/what-do-adventists-say-about-exercise/}CWe 44.3

Improves sleep: Stress often makes it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Exercise can help to regulate our sleep-wake cycle and improve the quality of our sleep.

Increases energy levels: When we are stressed, we may feel tired and fatigued. Exercise can help to boost our energy levels and improve our overall sense of well-being.

Improves focus and concentration: Exercise can help to improve our cognitive function and make it easier to focus on the task at hand.

Reduces pain: Stress may increase muscle tension and pain. Exercise can help to relax our muscles and reduce pain.

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.”
3 John 2CWe 44.4

“The whole body is designed for action, and unless the physical powers are kept in health by active exercise, the mental powers cannot long be used to their highest capacity.” Ellen White in Education, p. 207CWe 44.5

Reflect: What types of exercise do you enjoy? How do you or could you make exercise a part of your daily routine?CWe 44.6