So “The Boys of Summer” are back. Spring training (baseball) began again some 10 days ago, for some that means spring is here, or it is at least right around the corner!  I am all about the power of positivity; good mind, good attitude, good body equals good life!  Being that we are in that “spring-time” frame of mind and some of us are just coming out of hibernation, right now is prime time to dust off those running shoes, tune up the bike and find a workout buddy!

Just to clarify – the definition from the Webster’s Dictionary Website: aerobic exercise is “exercise that increases the need for oxygen.” So you have to get off your buttocks and move around – spring clean yourself!  PLUS – Here are a few cool psychological benefits from aerobic exercise. 1. Losing fat produces a better self image, reduces stress, enhances your mood and pumps up those endorphins.  As much as we (may) hate this… exercise is beneficial to our physical, mental and emotional well-being.  While it may still be chilly outside in Colorado, I’ve even dusted off the workout tools, inclusive of my Wii Fit. Hey, don’t knock it until you try it! I’m getting going myself!  So, right now let’s focus on the mental bonuses.

Mental Bonus #1 – Better self image and self confidence.  Quite simply when you look in the mirror. Even if no major change has happened you know that something is happening and you feel better about yourself.  Additionally, once you start to SEE a physical change, you become a confident powerhouse.  Note: Pro athletes are over the top in shape and over the top in confidence (and/or ego) – coincidence, I think not!

Mental Bonus #2 – Stress relief.  Proven fact that exercise reduces stress hormones like cortisol, and increases endorphins – and opioid (morphine-like) “feel-good” chemicals that are produced in the brain.

Mental Bonus #3 – Great things come in three’s folks. Mood enhancement, it’s like Viagra for your emotions.  As I mentioned above get’s your “feel-good” chemicals going and puts you on a natural high.

So there you have it, a brief look into spring cleaning yourself!  It starts with the right attitude and as with anything, the only way it works is if you TAKE ACTION!  For those of you that don’t know, it takes 26 spaced repetitions to learn something or create a habit. Get to going! By Summer you’ll look better, feel better and have a better outlook.