We've all been there before. You know, those days where you really don't want to go to the gym, but you end up going anyway and having one of the best workouts ever? You never hear people saying that they regret going. It's usually the opposite and they feel happier and more energized afterwards.

One of the best things about exercise is that it doesn't just benefits our physical health, but our mental health as well. Sometimes the density of big emotions can get stuck in our bodies and movement is a key tool in helping us process and shift some of those feelings. When we get out of our minds and into our bodies, things have the space to come up naturally and the shift begins. It's such an empowering feeling to move through what you're going through. A recent study found that just 30 minutes of exercise can improve our mood and overall sense of wellbeing. And it doesn't take long for those effects to kick in either. After just four weeks of regular exercise, participants reported feeling happier, more energetic, and less stressed out.

Exercise is also a huge help in combatting anxiety and depression. One study found that just six weeks of regular exercise was as effective as medication at treating patients with major depression. And while medication can have some pretty nasty side effects, exercise has side effects like increased strength, improved cardiovascular health, better sleep, and weight loss. So, if you're feeling down, getting yourself moving is a great way to pick yourself up again.

The next time you're feeling low and considering skipping your workout, remember all the amazing benefits that exercise has to offer both your body and your mind. Chances are, you'll be glad you made the decision to go once you're finished! And if the solo gym motivation still isn’t there, try signing up for a class or working out with a friend. Having an accountability buddy can make all the difference.