Exercise isn’t just for losing weight; Discover activities that can help you relieve daily stress and anxiety
When a person is anxious or stressed, it’s common to think of different ways to calm down, right? Taking deep breaths, meditating, listening to relaxing music are some of the most popular activities. But did you know that exercise can also help you in these moments?
Right! According to the scientific journal Frontiers in psychiatry, some exercises can reduce the risk of developing anxiety by about 60%. Those who suffer from this disorder can also benefit from sport.
But which exercises are useful against stress and anxiety? According to Monica Marques, physical educator, they are those that involve breathing control.
“Any exercise will bring benefits and promote a feeling of well-being. But, in general, those that involve breathing, releasing more endorphins and serotonin (the so-called happiness hormone) contribute even more to prevention”, underlines the partner and technical director at Hi Athletics.
It is worth remembering that a balanced diet, rich in vitamins and nutrients, is another essential measure in the fight against mental disorders. Even in the mildest cases it is still essential to contact a psychologist to adequately treat the disease.
Monica created a list of seven best practices to help combat stress and anxiety. Watch!
Yoga
Yoga promotes relaxation, flexibility and physical vigor in low-impact physical activities. Apart from this, it helps improve balance, abdominal strength, digestion and weight control.
Walking and running
Ideal for calming down, walking and running release lots of endorphins and reduce the level of cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body. For these activities to play their role, try to dedicate at least 30 minutes a day 3 times a week and dedicate yourself to practice.
Fitness
This is a very complete activity, as it works several muscle groups at the same time. It contributes significantly to the quality of sleep, a factor normally associated with anxiety.
Flex – Stretching circuit
In this type of exercise circuit you will improve your posture and flexibility, working different muscle groups, such as buttocks, torso, arms and legs. It also relaxes the mind and body, helping to relieve stress.
Pilates
Since it affects breathing, Pilates is also ideal for those who suffer from anxiety or for those who want to prevent anxiety in this regard.
Exercise brings control and connection between body and mind, also contributing to the relief of many pathological conditions.
Dance
For those who love to dance, this type of exercise is an incredible way to move your body without getting bored or in pain. Dancing contributes greatly to physical and mental health, relieves stress and increases self-esteem and mood.
Bodybuilding
Bodybuilding is excellent for relaxing the body and mind. It helps improve physical condition, gain strength and strengthen muscles, while also providing better quality sleep at night.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
