7 physical activities to help fight stress and anxiety

Discover how moving your body can contribute to mental health wellbeing

We live in a fast-paced world and often face daily challenges that can lead to an accumulation of stress and anxiety. The good news is that regular physical activity can be a powerful tool to help manage emotions and feelings. This is because exercise not only benefits the body, promoting cardiovascular health, flexibility and muscle strength, but also has a significant impact on the well-being of the mind.

Therefore, take a look at 7 physical activities that are particularly effective for combating stress and anxiety, helping you find healthy and enjoyable ways to take care of your mental health.

1. Yoga

Yoga combines physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation to promote balance between body and mind. “The true goal of Yogy is samadhi, a Sanskrit word that denotes the full state of bliss and the union of the individual Being with the transcendental Being,” explains Romulo Carrer, music therapist and yoga instructor.

two. Walk

The practice of walk promotes the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters associated with the feeling of well-being. Therefore, this activity helps reduce stress, anxiety and generally improves mood. “These effects are significant, as we naturally try to repeat behaviors and habits that bring us pleasure and well-being,” explains Dr. Aline Lamaita, a vascular surgeon.

3. Pilates

OR pilates is an exercise method that focuses on strengthening your core, improving posture and flexibility. In addition to its physical benefits, it can also help relieve stress and anxiety. “With deep breathing techniques and concentration, this type of exercise is a great way to relax,” explains Josi Araujo, physical therapist and Pilates teacher.

4. Swimming

Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can be very effective for reducing stress and anxiety. The sensation of floating on water and focusing on your breathing can help calm your mind and relax your body, providing instant relief from stress.

5. Dance

Dance It’s a fun and energizing way to exercise that can also be therapeutically beneficial. “Dance can help fight stress and mild to moderate depression. Those who dance are closer to others, which helps with this type of disease. It’s time to recharge your batteries, change your focus. You forget all your problems They don’t have them. They don’t disappear when you finish the activity they are there, but you have your batteries recharged, with new energy to face them”, explains dance teacher Rogério Luiz Pereira.

6. Race

Running is a great way to release tension and clear your mind. In addition to improving cardiovascular health and increasing physical endurance, running releases endorphins that can help relieve stress, anxiety and improve mood.

“Both walking and running are good for your health and some benefits are common in both modes, such as the control of hypertension, diabetes and cholesterol, improvement of circulation and the release of endorphins, hormones that relax the body, generate a feeling of well-being and improve the quality of sleep, “explains Dr. Aline Lamaita

7. beach tennis

Play beach tennis offers a rewarding experience that promotes socialization and emotional well-being. “The combination of outdoor movement and relaxation makes this sport a natural therapy against stress. It is worth highlighting that in cities there are also sand courts, which are real refuges between buildings”, says Alan Berlin, specialist and founder of Total Beach Tennis.

Source: Terra

Ben

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.