Exercise to Reduce Stress and Anxiety

ByVanessa Boglio

Stress and Anxiety in Our Lives
Most humans experience high levels of stress due to concerns related to family, work, studies, and money, among other things. Exercise is the best therapy against stress.
Some choose to cope in different ways (prescription medications, alcohol, or drugs) to manage their stressors, while others carry on with their daily tasks, being physically and mentally affected.
But did you know there is a free method that helps minimize anxiety and stress?
Exercise
Exercise helps improve and prevent various health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, dementia, heart attacks, and arthritis. Research conducted by the Mayo Clinic (2014) on anxiety, depression, and exercise shows that the psychological and physical benefits of exercise help reduce anxiety and improve mood.
How Does Exercise Help with Stress, Depression, and Anxiety?
According to the Mayo Clinic (2014), exercise helps in numerous ways, such as:
• Releases brain chemicals associated with well-being that help with depression, such as endorphins and neurotransmitters.
• Reduces immune system chemicals that worsen depression.
• Increases body temperature, which could have a calming or relieving effect.
Emotional Benefits of Exercise
Daily or regular exercise can have emotional and psychological benefits, such as:
• Building self-confidence
• Channeling worries
• Promoting social interaction
• Dealing with stressors in a healthy way
Manageable Stress and Anxiety
6 ways to reduce stress:

  1. Listen to music – makes you feel better
  2. Exercise – to distract yourself, stimulate your mind, and release tension
  3. Sleep – strengthens mentally and physically
  4. Disconnect from phone – at least a few minutes daily
  5. Surround yourself with nature – will relax you and make you feel happier
  6. Meditate/breathe – 10 minutes a day will help you rest your mind and body

In general, exercise will help you healthily manage stress and anxiety, achieving a better sense of well-being. There is a wide variety of exercises you can choose according to preference, style, and intensity.
Some examples include running or jogging, walking, Zumba, weight training, dancing, sports, etc.
Just choose one, start slowly, learn to enjoy that time, make it a challenge in your life, and you’ll see a positive change. You have control!

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