Exercise your way to a happier life

 According to The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention approximately 19 million Americans suffer from depression. And about 15 percent of the population will suffer from depression at some time during their life.There are many cases where patients suffering from various ailments are in fact suffering from depression which goes undiagnosed. In most cases they are unaware that they are suffering from depression. Some common symptoms of depression include:

• Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities

• Change in weight or appetite

• Change in sleeping patterns

• Fatigue of loss of energy

Depression can be prevented and treated through  regular exercise. When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. Endorphins have the ability of producing analgesia- the absence of pain and a feeling of well-being. Regular exercise helps relieve stress, improves sleep,boost's self-esteem and eliminates anxiety. If you're already a regular at the gym or a jogger then good for you! You are highly unlikely to develop depression as your releasing a good supply of endorphins to keep you both healthy and happy. If you're a bit lazy to trek to the gym or 'exercise' the conventional way then why not try some alternative ways.

Here are some fun ways to keep healthy and happy.

1. Taking up a Zumba dance class at your fitness center.( Zumba combines  dance and aerobic elements using high-energy Latin and International beats, think the Macarena on dynamite!)
2. Yoga 
3. Pilates 
4. Pole dancing ( some fitness centers and gyms offer classes)
5. Biking
6. Latin Dancing  ( a great way brush up on some salsa moves and improve your dancing skills)
7. Swimming
8. Gardening ( ideal for homeowners who want to beautify their home and get some exercise in)
9. Tennis 
10. Golf 

You don't have to be a  fitness guru to do regular exercise. Whatever activity you chose should be something you enjoy doing. Chose something that best suits your mood and lifestyle and integrate it into your schedule. This way it becomes part of your daily routine. Exercise in any form is a great de-stresser as well as perker upper.It get's your mind off everything else and helps you to focus on what you're doing. Go ahead and boast about the way you look and feel. Like the old saying goes. You look how you feel. So let's make an effort to feel great ALL the time!

Work up a sweat and improve your mood

Here is my ultimate fitness song. Whether you're dancing, jogging,sporting or even gardening. There's definitely no stopping when in comes to Kanye!