Boost your mood with exercise

Exercise isn't only good for your body, it's a boost for your mood, too. Exercise releases endorphins -- your body's natural "feel-good" hormones. It also gives you time with your thoughts, to clear your mind of stress and clutter. Physical activity is a natural confidence builder, too -- as you build strength and tone your body you feel good about your accomplishment. To get the most mood-boosting benefits:

• Challenge yourself. Your body may not release endorphins at a mild level of exercise. So, to the best of your physical ability, work up to a more intense level.
  
• Listen to music while working out.
• Pick an environment that is enjoyable -- whether that means going to the gym with friends or heading out to a nature trail.