Everyone experiences stress at one time or another.
Stress is a response to a threat in a situation or the disruption of the body’s homeostasis.
Exercise is one of the best strategies for combating stress.
Health problems associated with stress
Headaches
High blood pressure
Chest pain to heart palpitation
Back and neck pain
Loss of sleep
Depression
Anxiety
Obesity
Immune system suppression
Diabetes
How does exercise help with mental stress?
Physical activity improves your body’s ability to use oxygen and also improves blood flow. Both of these changes have a direct effect on your brain.
Exercise also increases your brain endorphins. Endorphins are the “feel-good” neurotransmitters.
Physical activity can also help take your mind off your worries.
The repetitive motions involved in exercise promote a focus on your body rather than your mind.
Focusing on a single physical task can produce a sense of energy and optimism. This focus can help provide calmness and clarity.
Improvements to your overall health may help indirectly moderate your stress levels.
Examples of exercise help with mental stress
Cycling
Brisk walking or jogging
Swimming or doing water aerobics
Dancing
Rowing
Playing tennis
Resistance exercises
How much exercise is needed to manage mental stress?
The American Heart Association recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity every week.
They suggest breaking it down by tacking at least 5 days per week. (30 minutes per day)
Consider an individual who reports significant work-related stress, breaking the exercise into two 10- to 15-minute sessions.
Sharmi Kanthasami
References
Comments