Do you believe that as little as 5 minutes a day of regular physical activity can improve your mood and focus? Studies have shown it can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by releasing endorphins, also known as “feel-good” chemicals, in the brain. Exercise can help reduce your stress and improve your overall physical and mental health.

Finding time to exercise every day can be a challenge with your busy schedule, but you can find 5 minutes, right? You’re more likely to stick with your habit if you enjoy it. Take a moment to reflect on the good feeling after you finish your exercise routine. Consider being mindful about your experience and taking a few slow, deep breaths. A consistent routine at the same time every day helps to lock in a new habit. Be patient with yourself. Life happens, and sometimes you may miss a workout. Don’t beat yourself up over it, and just get back on track as soon as you can.

Choose a 5-minute routine you feel challenged but not discouraged. Here is a sample: lunges, squats, push-ups, jumping Jacks, jogging on the spot for 30-40 seconds each, with rest of 20-30 seconds after each one. Research demonstrates it increases your brain levels of BDNF, a protein which plays an important role in neurons survival and growth, including mood and focus regulator. Of course, this is a simple way to describe a complex process that is not fully understood yet.

Give it a try and see for yourself you deserve it!