Speaking with women and having them tell me exactly deep down in their heart the way that they really feel about exercise or anything has really taught me a lot about people.

I love talking to people about exercise, and what I really love about it is how much it has changed people’s lives.

Exercise not only helps the body to gain strength and endurance, but can also

help you mentally.

Studies have found that more people who do not exercise have a lack of motivation, and many may not have ever been in any type of sports, activities and in turn can cause them to have a lack of confidence in them selves.

Many suffer from depression, stress and anxiety that can actually take a role in preventing them from even beginning or not even knowing how to begin an exercise program.

Let’s take, for instance, depression. It is one of the most common problems that many people face today. Yes it can be treatable with medication or therapy, but have you ever considered exercise as a part of the treatment?

It helps your self-esteem, it provides a distraction from your worries, it improves your health and body which, in turn, helps lift your mood. It helps you get rid of that built-up stress and frustration that many face in a day’s time. And exercise helps you sleep better, which can often be a big problem when you are depressed.

One of the problems with depression is it really drains you mentally and makes you feel as though you have no energy.

Many who suffer from depression may even consider themselves to be weak, and can hardly get out of the bed in the morning. Exercise can help in so many ways and these are just a few of them:

n Set simple goals. You don’t have to train for a marathon. Set a goal to get dressed and walk around the block. Promise yourself you’ll walk around the block at least three times that day. The next day, do more. Try to improve just a little bit each day.

n Go easy on yourself. You might not be able to handle a lot of exercise, so try to feel good about what you can do. Now is not the time to kick yourself.

n Do what you enjoy. If yoga feels good to you, spend a few minutes going through your favorite poses. If you usually enjoy they gym, get your bag packed and hit the treadmill. Even if you’re not enjoying it right now, eventually you will.

n Make it social. Try to find a friend to walk with. Talking to people can help raise your energy and remind you that you’re not alone.

n Go outside. Even a little bit of sunshine can help raise your mood a little. Try to get outside and get some fresh air, remind yourself there’s a world out there and you can participate in it as much as you can handle.

n Work with your doctor. Be sure to talk to your doctor about your treatment options and your plans to exercise. He or she may be able to refer you to someone who can help you set up an exercise program.

Whatever you decide to do or type of exercise program that you get into to, do not give up.

Exercise can be a big help with your moods and help self-esteem. Do not for one minute believe that you cannot get into a healthy exercise program, and don’t let anyone discourage you from starting one. If we would all just take responsibility to exercise, we will see many of our health and mental problems become a thing of the past.

Debbie britt is a certified fitness instructor. She promotes health and fitness in various aspects in the community. Contact her at 562-7517.