Exercise to reduce stress – Part 1

Sunday, July 5th, 2009 at 5:53 pm

The world today is very stressful. We try many things to help relieve our stress, which usually are not healthy. Stress can have tremendous impact on all areas of our life. It can ruin a person’s health, family life, and their career. Everyday obstacles become extremely difficult. Stress can turn the kindest person into a walking ball of anger.

We spend time and money trying to find relief. Some try to medicate stress. Medication only provides temporary relief. They have a long list of side effects. Stress is always going to be a part of your life. The trick is to make lifestyle changes that help you manage the problem. We need to utilize our body’s natural defenses.

Exercise has proved to help relieve stress. When we make physical demands on our body, it releases chemicals called endorphins. These chemicals provide an analgesic affect, which gives you a feeling of general well-being. You have experienced this feeling before, for example when you get excited or scared, your body releases these chemicals. These chemicals are also part of our fight or flight instinct. They help us survive when we are in danger.

Exercise combats stress in other ways. It helps your brain release serotonin. This feel good chemical, helps relieve anxiety, and plays a key role in controlling mood. Vigorous exercise produces more of this chemical. Even moderate execise can still produce positive results. Serotonin is given in pill form for anxiety disorders, but it has an abundance of side effects. Exercise allows your body to get it naturally. In addition, it can be found in our everyday diet. Some examples of these are bananas, pineapples, kiwi, plums, tomatoes, and mushrooms.

You do not have to run out and get a gym membership. Remember ever little bit helps. Many factors will decide which type of exercise are best for you. You need need to consider your fitness level and health. For example, a nature walk provides a less stressful atmosphere. Walking in this environment promotes relaxing responses from deep within the brain, along with the benefit of exposure to natural sunlight.

Sometimes we need the encouragement of others. A group exercise class provides a stimulating environment. Aerobics really get your heart pumping releasing lots of those feel good chemicals. There many other group activities, some examples are fitness classes, yoga, or playing a sport. It is up to your individual taste, and your health level.

Exercise is proving to be a great weapon in battling stress. A healthy body improves mental attitude. Next time you come home all stressed, give exercising a try. Get those chemicals flowing. You will be amazed at how relaxed and relieved you feel. Remember to consult your physician before starting any exercise routine.

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