Fitness Facts: Reduce Stress with Exercise

October 13, 2014

If work and life have you wound up tight, you can reduce stress with exercise.

Most of us are probably aware of the benefits of exercise on our body and our overall health.  If your goal is to lose weight then exercise is a must, coupled with healthy eating.  Staying active also helps us age better so that we maintain strong bodies and minds.  But you can also reduce stress with exercise, which helps us to be better equipped to face the many challenges that life throws our way.

Any kind of exercise is good for us, be it yoga, pilates, walking, riding a bike, swimming, or lifting weights.  Here are just a few of the ways that you can reduce stress with exercise.

Boost Your Endorphins.  Often referred to as runner’s high, any vigorous exercise will cause your brain to boost production of endorphins, which makes you feel good.

Clear Your Mind.  If you’re involved in a high-intensity step class or playing a game of tennis you’re most likely not going to be thinking about that big meeting and instead putting all your focus into your body and the workout.

Sleep More Soundly.  Your sleep patterns can be disrupted by anxiety and stress and this lack of sleep perpetuates the vicious cycle.  Endorphins not only make you feel good, they help you to sleep better so you’re well rested and ready to take on the day.  If you reduce stress with exercise you’ll get a good night’s sleep, which in turn puts you in better condition to get the most out of your workouts.

Better Communication in the Body.  All of your body’s systems (cardiovascular, nervous, etc.) must work together effectively in order for you to properly cope with stress.  When you work out your body’s systems communicate and interact, which leads to an improved response to stress overall.

 

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