Page 136 - South Mississippi Living - May, 2021

HEALTHY LIVING
mind & body
HEALTHY
story and photos by Luke Height
Thais Araujo, Certi ed Personal Trainer and Co-Owner of Breathe_ Move_Eat in D’Iberville has helped many people improve their health, wellness and tness. She has seen people from all backgrounds, body types and states of mind enter the gym with di erent goals or expectations in mind. Regardless of these expectations, one thing always changes: the person’s mental state.
Often people come into the gym expecting weight loss, but they end up getting a lot more. “I’ve seen people getting healthier, happier, regaining con dence and self-esteem. It’s amazing what a regular exercise routine can do for you,” says Araujo. Making exercise a habit impacts a person’s mood and outlook on life. Taking on the challenge of running, lifting, cycling or any physical activity changes an individual’s perspective and alleviates stress.
“I say that if you look good, you feel good,” Araujo states. “If your self-esteem is down, exercise can bring it back.”
No one wants to feel down, but sometimes we just don’t know how to get out of a funk. Exercise is a great tool
to start turning those negative emotions into positive feelings. As individual progress is created, and small goals are met, one begins to experience feelings of accomplishment. Seeing the changes happen can be very inspiring.
Research shows exercise can be powerful medicine. Releasing oxytocin in the brain is known to have a euphoric a ect. “Exercise releases chemicals in the body that are responsible for making us feel good, motivated and happy. It’s a strong anti-depressant,” Araujo says.
The goal of exercise isn’t just to have six-pack abs. Exercise elicits good feelings and develops a strong, capable, and positive mindset.
When it comes to exercise, many people think that it’s too late to start or they feel intimidated because they don’t know where to start. “If you’re not familiar with exercise, hire a coach. A coach will be able to design a plan tailored to your goals and individual needs,” she says.
On the Mississippi Gulf Coast, there are a variety of great instructors. An instructor can help you begin your mental and physical journey and start a journey that will improve your life.
136 | May 2021
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
Thais Araujo.
Thais Araujo training a client.