We’ve all had our fair share of stressful moments in life. Looking back, some events may seem silly now (a grade 10 science exam, who cares about memorizing the periodic table?) while others were monumental like a driving test or your first job interview.

It doesn’t get any easier as we grow older with financial burdens, relationships, or a loved one’s illness making life particularly challenging and frustrating along the way.

[Oh my god... this poor girl is so stressed her tongue turned into a...remote control? What the hell is that thing?] 

The idea for this article was conceived during my last trip to the grocery store and walking by the magazine stands. September is “back-to-school” season in most parts of the world and there was

Waking up at 6:00am? Hitting the treadmill after work? Depriving myself of chocolate? Why the hell am I doing this again?

Maybe you’re trying lose weight, to keep your heart healthy and blood pressure down, to look better or fit into that wedding dress? There are lots of different reasons that push people to get up off the couch and exercise regularly. Regardless of your goal or reason, regular physical activity can also offer emotional and psychological benefits.

1. Fight Depression.

There is a considerable amount of research that suggests regular exercise is just as effective as prescription medication in battling mild to moderate depression. Why?  Exercise releases endorphins in the brain which can help numb the body’s pain perception. Take note of how you feel after a brisk walk or workout. If