Stress is part of life. Work, family, finances, health concerns and even the daily news can keep your mind and body wound up.
And chronic stress can affect sleep, digestion, blood pressure, mood and the immune system.
Fortunately, exercise is one of the best ways to manage it. Here’s why.
- It boosts your mood. Physical activity affects brain chemicals associated with mood and wellbeing, including endorphins. You don’t have to experience a “runner’s high” to benefit. A walk, strength-training session or other workout can help you feel better.
- It helps your body handle stress. Exercise helps regulate the body’s response to stress and can make you more resilient when stressful situations arise.
- It gives your brain a break. When you’re counting reps, following a trainer or concentrating on your movements, you’re focusing on something besides your worries. You might leave your workout with a clearer head.
- It helps you sleep. Stress can interfere with sleep, and poor sleep makes it harder to handle stress. Regular exercise can improve sleep quality and help break that cycle.
- It builds confidence. Getting stronger, improving your stamina or simply sticking with a routine provides a sense of accomplishment. Seeing what your body can do can help you feel more capable outside the gym, too.
Exercise won’t eliminate life’s problems. But it can help you feel calmer, stronger and better equipped to handle them.
When life gets stressful, that’s a good reason to keep moving.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.