Very Happy Phil

Hello!

I have been enjoying my 'happy' walks during the last 7 days. I enjoyed reading the research for this weeks happiness booster on exercise. Last week I mentioned the benefits of outdoor exercise and this week I'll champion the benefits of some types of indoor exercise! I will give you an example; Scottish country dancing! This is due to three elements; music, dancing exercise and social contact! It comes highly recommended by one of the original happiness gurus, the great late Prof Michael Argyle PhD.

Some forms of indoor exercise and outdoor exercise are proven to boost happiness! In order to remind us all of the MANY reasons to exercise I will share with you an inspiring list of benefits I found in a book by Jane Scrivner 'Detox yourself'. The book includes a list by the Fitness Industry Association in the UK for reasons exercise is good for us;

Promotes increased stamina
Relieves symptoms of menopause
Reduces Cardiovascular Disease
Prevents osteoporosis
Reduces the risk of breast cancer
Lessens arthritis pain
Controls cholesterol
Burns fat
Speeds up metabolism
Alleviates PMT (Premenstrual tension)
Improves neuromuscular (nerve and muscle) coordination
Increase the vodys ability to fight off infection
Reduces risk of glaucoma
Decreases the risk of colon cancer
Lowers blood pressure
Reduces the risk of obesity
Burns calories
Relieves constipation
Prevents endometriosis
Helps you to stop smoking
Relieves depression
Relieves anxiety
Improves sexual performance
Improves mental sharpness
Improves concentration
Improves outlook
Reduces medical costs
Increases job satisfaction
Preserves muscle
Preserves internal organs (liver, kidneys)
Improves reaction time
Increase arrange of motion
Improves cardiovascular fitness
Increases energy
Reduces alcohol consumption
Reduces stress
Enhances self-esteem
Heightens sense of wellbeing
Increases IQ
Enhances creativity
Decreases job absenteeism
Increases productivity
Improves flexibility
Improves circulation
Increases mobility
Improves memory
Shortens recovery time after illness or injury
Promotes a healthy back
Improves sleep
Lengthens life"

(Note; Although I think this list is inspiring and comprehensive I cannot be sure or guarantee that every claim above is scientifically proven beyond doubt)

Whether we carry out solitary exercise or social exercise they have both been proven to be beneficial. It appears to me that exercise is most beneficial when our mind is occupied; concentrating, chatting or observing senses. Here are a few of my favourite quotes which inspire me;

"Psychologists believe that several explanations underlie the well being (happiness) rewards of exercise. First is the self esteem/ mastery. Second is the possibility that the physical activity offers potential for flow, as well as a positive distraction that turns away worries and rumination. Third, physical activitywhen performed along with others can provide opportunities for social contact."
-Prof Sonja Lyubomirsky PhD 'The How of Happiness'

"Scottish dancing is a powerful package."
- Prof Michael Argyle PhD. (quote from 'QED How to be Happy' by Brian Edwards and Wendy Sturgess)

"Studies found that after an hours exercise, such as aerobics, those involved felt less tense, depressed, angry, tired or confused and had more vigour for the rest of the day and in some for the next day (Maroulakis and Zervas, 1993). Regular exercise such as four times a week for 10 weeks has produced more enduring positive states of the same kind.

If leisure can make people happy this is very important, since leisure is largely under our own control and easily changed. Physical exercise is the quickest way of acquiring a good mood."
-Prof Michael Argyle PhD. 'The psychology of happiness'

Whether you decide to exercise inside or outside today....

Have a happy 'exercise' day!

Keep HAPPY!

love

Very Happy Phil HUGS (No PhD or DOC)
:)

Remember,
"Happy walks work! Going for a walk in nature boosts our happiness!"
– Very Happy Phil

PS Would you like to meet me, question me or hug me?! I will be in Aberdeen (Scotland) this Thursday night talking about my favourite 5 habits of Happy People and 5 habits of unhappy people! Limited places;

http://www.aberdeenentrepreneurs.com/events/displayevent.asp?eventnum=10...

5 H.A.P.P.Y. Habits of happy people;
Happiness is top priority
Altruistic kindness
Positive attitude
Positive health
You are loved and loving

Thank you for reading....now you can start sharing!