If we can incorporate regular movement into our daily lives we will feel the physical and mental benefits, yet many of us view exercise as a punishment or an obligation.

Feel Better Live More Bitesize is my new weekly podcast for your mind, body and heart.  Each week I’ll be featuring inspirational stories and practical tips from some of my former guests.

Today’s clip is from episode 109 of the podcast with Kelly McGonigal. Kelly is a US research psychologist, a lecturer at Stanford University and an author.

Kelly reveals how it’s possible to change our mindset to view physical activity as a way to engage with life. If we focus on calories and metrics, we may be missing the joy we can experience from movement.

She explains how going beyond what you think you’re capable of, whether that’s an endurance event or lifting heavy weights, can change the brain in positive ways.

Any movement is good for you though and can provide a reset for your mood and your brain chemistry. Repeatedly contracting any muscle, whether working out with weights or doing gardening, releases antidepressant substances called myokines that scientists have dubbed ‘hope molecules’.

Kelly gives us tips on how to incorporate more movement into our lives and find ways to move our body that we truly enjoy.

Disclaimer: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.*

Watch the full conversation with Kelly McGonigal here:

Audio version: #109 Discover the Joy of Movement with Dr Kelly McGonigal

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