It is well known that exercise results in many physical benefits, weight loss, improved stamina, increased lifespan and improvement in the operating efficiency of various body parts. Less known is the fact that a sound strength training exercise program not only strengthens the body but also strengthens the mind, preparing it to accept and overcome the ups and downs and challenges of life. It's not only the outside of your body you need to exercise; the inside is just as important if not more.

The brain is the "muscle" of intelligence and just like the muscles in the rest of your body, it develops and gains strength during youth and reaches a peak. It then can either be maintained over the rest of your life, or be allowed to deteriorate losing capability, agility and function just like any other body part.

Physical exercise is the body's key method of staying healthy and is crucial to mental health and fitness as well. By increasing significant amounts of blood flow to the brain in turn leads to better memory, improved intellectual capacity, alertness and productivity.

The physical needs and outcomes of exercise, whether it's to lose weight, tone muscle, improve heart/lung fitness, address obesity or increase lifespan dominate what we hear about. This message needs to be rewritten. When you exercise you are going to feel better, you will sleep better, have increased confidence and sense of self that results from your efforts that you are doing something for yourself. You will also have an inner sense of well-being that carries over into every aspect of your daily life.

A sedentary lifestyle can make you feel fatigued. When you work out regularly, you feel more energized and are ready to face the day. Exercise gets your blood pumping, which then delivers oxygen to your entire body and gets you in better shape for everyday life, making it easier to get through the ups and downs of our busy lifestyles.

Just as you get more energy exercising you also get happier, your mood will be boosted you will have a better outlook on life and enjoy life more. You will feel good, really good and if you don't already appreciate all the good things in life then you just might start to. Your exercise program is also great way to blow off stress. Heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol levels, all of which are raised under stress can be decreased leaving you feeling less stressed and more relaxed. Cortisol is the "stress hormone" and increased levels can lead to health consequences ranging from weight gain and moodiness to heart disease and diabetes.

Studies show that you will be less likely to suffer from depression if you are strong and fit. You are active in a productive manner and the brain sends out "feel good" chemicals signaling a happy pleasant state of mind during and after exercise.

Exercise is one of the most important things you can do for a healthy mind and body. It affects how you feel physically, mentally and emotionally. It affects how you look, how you function and contributes to your quality of life. Use it as a tool for moving beyond life's crises and make it part of your quest for better health. It's never too late to start and the sooner you start the sooner you can reap the benefits.