Exercise is one of the best ways to manage stress. From an intense workout to a lunchtime walk break, physical activity can help you reduce daily stress.
Here are just a few of the ways that exercise helps you manage stress:
1. Improves your mood and helps you feel better mentally.
When you’re physically active, your brain releases endorphins into your body. These feel-good chemicals help to boost your mood and give you some short-term relief from stress. And when you stick with a long-term training or workout routine, the number of stress hormones in your body will decrease, leading to more sustainable stress management.
2. Takes your mind off your daily worries.
All day long, our thoughts compete for our attention. Exercise can help you shift your focus away from daily stress. It’s easier for your to-do list to fade into the background when you’re thinking about your movements and breathing. Taking this mindful approach to your workouts not only reduces stress but can also help you get more out of each of your workouts.
3. Promotes a quality night of sleep.
Sleep, stress, and activity are all related to one another. Regular exercise improves the quality of your sleep. And by getting a quality night of sleep, you’re better equipped to handle daily stress. To get the benefits of sleep, and better manage your stress levels, aim for at least six hours of quality sleep each night. And if you can squeeze in a bit more than six hours, your body will welcome it.
At McKendree Metro RecPlex, our fitness programs help you move better, feel better, and play better. Check out the variety of programs we have to offer your whole family. To learn more about how to get started on making your fitness goals a reality, contact us today.
