How exercise can help you relieve stress

Seven out of ten people experience stress or anxiety daily, according to a study by the American Psychological Association. It’s impossible to get rid of stress completely, because it’s an important part of what makes us human. A little bit of stress will help you study hard, mend difficult relationships and strive to achieve your goals.

If you’re feeling stressed all the time, you need some tools to help you manage – and one of the best ways to manage stress is through regular exercise.

How does exercise help with stress?

Exercise does more than just improve your health and make you better able to fight off illness – it’s also a natural stress reliever. When your body feels good, so does your mind. Exercise can:
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• Reduce fatigue.
• Improve concentration.
• Enhance brain function.
• Stabilise mood.
• Decrease tension.
• Improve your sleep.
• Grow self-esteem.
• Make you feel happier.

Physical activity helps your body to pump oxygen around its systems. You get more oxygen to your brain, which helps with clear thinking and concentration. Exercise also feels great because it releases endorphins – neurotransmitters that give us all our happy, feel-good vibes. More endorphins = a happier, healthier mind.
When you exercise, you’re usually conducting repetitive activities that require focus and concentration. This takes your mind off whatever you’ve been stressed about, often allowing space for a solution to present itself.

What kind of exercise can you do?

Even five minutes of aerobic exercise is enough to unleash anti-stress benefits. Here are some ways you can add regular exercise to your life:
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• Team sports, like hockey, rugby, netball, or basketball.
• Martial arts, such as karate, jiu jitsu, and taekwondo.
• Stretching exercises like yoga and pilates.
• Weight training at a gym.
• Outdoor pursuits like rock climbing and orienteering.
• Dance or aerobics classes.
• Walking your dog around the neighbourhood.
• Anything else you enjoy that keeps you moving.

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Other ways to relieve stress

Exercise is not the only thing you can do if you’re feeling stressed or anxious. We also recommend:
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• Talking to a friend, parent, or person you trust.
• Walking away from a situation and doing something else to rest your brain.
• Spending time laughing with friends or relaxing with pets.
• Eating something that energises you and makes you feel good.
• Watching a fun movie or TV show.
• Reading a book you enjoy.
• Making some art or writing a journal entry.
• Meditation or tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique).

Do you exercise when you’re feeling stressed? Try it and see if it helps you relax.