If you’ve ever started your day feeling down, and quickly stressed out with all of the things on your to-do list, I’m going to share one of the most fast acting strategies to turn that moment around.

Without fail, getting outside for a walk changes my outlook. I’ve been blessed by feeling a warm breeze on my face, or refreshing rain drops on my skin. Seeing cardinals, blue jays and beavers always puts a smile on my face.

But even if I am not able to get outside, movement in doors, walking, dancing, any kind of exercise makes a difference with our mental health. Why is exercise so important?

Movement impacts our moods, our nervous system, our respiratory and circulatory systems.

We really are complex beings, our spiritual, mental, emotional and physical natures are all interconnected. We are fearfully and wonderfully made. Physical exercise promotes healthy changes in the brain, including neural growth, reduced inflammation, and brain activity that promote feelings of calm and confidence. It also releases endorphins, important chemicals in our brains that help us to feel energized.

If you’re feeling down or having trouble finding a solution to a challenge, take a break, take a walk, enjoy some movement wherever you can and see what a difference it makes.

Andrew Blackwood can be reached on Facebook here @coachdrewcan