If your schedule looks anything like mine, most days are packed with deliverables, deadlines and distractions. I love my sweaty workouts as much as the next endorphin-junkie, but I’ll be the first to admit it’s not always easy to motivate to hit the gym after a busy day at the office or pull myself out of bed for hilly run before work. The truth is though; being active has many benefits beyond feeling fit and comfy clothes: greater productivity, creativity and getting to participate in some pretty incredible adventures.
1. INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY
It may sound ironic but the days I make time to exercise are the days I get the most done. I find that simply penciling my weekly workouts into the calendar before anything else provides structure to my day and gets me thinking strategically about my week and keeps me focused on achieving that oh-so-difficult work-life balance. Structure aside, being active also provides an instant energy boost––no matter how sleep-deprived I may be––which gives me the momentum and energy I need to get through those really tough weeks.
2. A MORE CREATIVE MIND
Another big-time benefit to being active is the boost in creativity than can accompany a workout. I’ve heard some people do their best thinking in the shower but I find when I’m lacking inspiration and need a few fresh ideas, the solution is usually as simple as heading outside for a brisk walk or going on a short jog. Solo runs especially seem to get my creative juices flowing. It’s not uncommon for me to finish a short jog with a list of 4-5 new blog post topics and half a post written in my head.
3. INCREDIBLE ADVENTURES
Added productivity and a boost in creative thinking are great day-to-day benefits of being active but what I love most about having a body that craves exercise are the incredible adventures I get to experience outside of my everyday life. Last Friday the hubs and I jetted off to the Grand Canyon for a weekend of hiking with two of my best friends from grad school. Together we covered over 13 miles and 4,500 feet of elevation while seeing some pretty incredible sights and sharing a lot of laughs along the way. Being active allows me to see more, do more and live a fuller life–and for that I’m thankful.
It feels great to be fit, but being active also allows me to fully engage in the things I need and love to do every day–as well as satisfy my love for adventure. Having recognized this makes it easy to think about being active as an opportunity, rather than an obligation–and when I’m lacking motivation, that one simple mindset change is often all it takes to get me moving.
Tank lucy | Long Sleeve lucy | Bottoms lucy | Eyewear Ray Ban | Hat lucy
Besides the comfy clothes and feeling fit, what do you love about being active?
PS. Check out this great This Is For You giveaway from lucy!
A special thanks to lucy for sponsoring this post through their partnership with POPSUGAR Select. I was compensated for my time but all opinions are my own.
I think a good outwear affect positively on your all the work session. Because a good outwear mean a good look and a good outwear definitely add you best performance. Thanks for sharing your personal information.
Bang on with all of these Elle! I never regret a workout, even if I have to force myself to do it!
Great post! I find that exercise is such a mood-booster, builds self-esteem, and even helps me eat better. Adventures is top of the list too, and this weekend was sure a great one :)
I always come back from a solo run with tons of ideas! It most definitely gets the creative juices flowing. Now with CrossFit, it flies by so fast that I feel like I don’t have a second to think about anything other than the task at hand=) I love the benefits listed. All perfect inspiration for anyone needing another reason to be active.
Being active reminds me that I am strong and capable, no matter what challenges life brings my way. But I completely agree with your top 3, too! Sometimes I wish I had a pen and paper to write down creative thoughts and ideas that come up when I’m exercising.
P.S. – Great to see you last week! Glad to hear you enjoyed your Grand Canyon adventure!
The focus. I feel like exercise just helps me to get centered and refocus.
Love it! <3
gorgeous views. an outdoor hiking or any workout really helps with creativity.
such great photos! i almost got that same exact lucy top for the campaign – wish i had.
Those views are stunning! I love hiking adventures/vacations. My favorite part about being active is the boost of energy it gives me. I don’t always love getting out of bed for an early morning workout, but it definitely sets a more positive tone for my day when I’m done.
Are you a secret fitness model? You look stunning!
Also, where did you purchase that tank top? It’s beautiful and I want it :)
That’s so sweet of you to say! My whole outfit is from lucy – I added links to each item above!