By Gino Diguilio
When it comes to the end of the semester, productivity in schoolwork is normally something I struggle deeply with. The last minute all-nighters, overwhelming feelings of never finishing or even just the well-known thoughts of giving up all things are experiences I could say all college students have had in our lives at least once a semester. I know I have had my fair share.
But to my surprise, I have yet to feel overwhelmed by the daunting tasks of school this time around. Honestly, I have been much busier with a full load of courses and a long never ending to-do list, so I was surprised at this revelation. Immediately I panicked as I thought to myself, “well maybe I have something due soon and just don’t remember, or should I try to get ahead on my studying for finals?” I came to the conclusion that nothing has changed for me this semester. Except for one small thing.
I have gone and worked out at the gym and brought my physical health to the forefront. I’ve noticed that ever since that lifestyle change I have been a happier person, less stressed, and my overall productivity has improved! I did some research to figure out why exactly I was feeling different. Supposedly, when you exercise, your brain releases serotonin that helps you feel better and improves your state of mind, making the stresses of work easier to handle.
Makes sense, right? And being the cliché man that I am, I cannot go without bringing up the obviously most important information a movie had ever taught me. Elle Woods from the movie “Legally Blonde” said, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t shoot their husbands. They just don’t.” Now the whole killing your husband has no context for us, but the endorphins part I can totally vouch for!
I encourage everyone to try their best to squeeze a workout into their day. No, you don’t have to go to the gym to get a workout in. You will be able to receive those endorphins to make you happy and the serotonin to keep you focused with a small dose of working out at home. Trust me, I am the worst procrastinator of all time. If you ever listen to my advice, now would be the time.
Go workout. It’s worth it. It helps clear your mind by making you focus on the task at hand, allows you to increase mental stability and makes your overall physical health increase. It is also a great feeling knowing you can check off your workout from your to-do list.