Apart from improving overall mood, increasing energy levels and enabling better focus, exercise helps us in many other ways that we don’t often realise. One of these is stress management.
An article released by the Health & Fitness Journal, written by Erica M Jackson, PhD, FACSM stated, ’Stress is a significant individual and public health problem that is associated with numerous physical and mental health concerns. It is estimated that between 75 per cent and 90 per cent of primary care physician visits are caused by stress-related illnesses. Cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, depression, anxiety, immune system suppression, headaches, back and neck pain, and sleep problems are some of the health problems associated with stress‘”
This gives us an understanding of the negative impact of stress, and how important it is to address it at its root.
Exercise is one of the coping strategies for stress management and to maintain optimum mental health. Whenever we exercise, it boosts the ‘good’ endorphins and we get instant relief. Amidst our busy schedules, we don’t realise how much we neglect our mental health and set it aside as the last priority. Stress is dangerous, because it can mark the beginning of so many life-threatening diseases.
Oxygen flow and blood flow are both necessary for good health and fitness. A workout can enhance both, and also result in feelings of contentment and happiness. Hence, it is always recommended that an individual should keep themselves physically active as much as possible, unless medical advice has been issued to rest or avoid exercise.
When we workout, our focus is on the physical movements and motions, such as form, posture and equipment. The brain then feels lighter and energy levels soar.
Exercises or outdoor activities also act as stressbusters when one is otherwise engaged in a mundane routine that saps energy. Hence, it’s often recommended to start off slow, then move onto moderate exercises and eventually increase the pace to vigorous. This is precisely why there are training levels depending on one’s experience and ability. Increasing resistance is good to build endurance and leads to enhanced health benefits.
It is important to exercise to alleviate stress, since excessive stress can lead to a number of ailments such as:
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Headaches
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Premature ageing
Exercise needn’t be complex. There are some easy-to-do of physical activities that help release stress and anxiety. These include jogging, basic gym workouts, swimming, bicycling, skipping, yoga and sports activities. Apart from relieving stress, exercise can also help in the following ways:
• Improved sleep cycle
• Focus and attention towards any given task
• Control over blood sugar and insulin levels
• Strengthened bones and muscles
• Reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases
• Channelising emotions better
• Self-esteem due to better mental health
• Improved social connection by combating feelings of isolation