Exercises To Calm Your Anxious Thoughts
Holistic Wellness for Overall Health.
Exercise offers numerous benefits for individuals dealing with anxiety. Engaging in physical activity can significantly reduce feelings of worry and stress, fostering a sense of calm and well-being. Here are some specific ways in which exercise positively impacts anxiety:
Release of Endorphins: Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones. This helps elevate mood and reduce perceptions of pain, creating a natural sense of happiness.
Stress Reduction: Exercise acts as a natural stress reliever. It reduces levels of the body's stress hormones, such as cortisol, and promotes relaxation, which can alleviate anxiety.
Improved Sleep: Regular physical activity can enhance sleep quality. Better rest is crucial for managing anxiety, as sleep deprivation can intensify anxious feelings.
Increased Confidence: Achieving fitness goals, no matter how small, can boost self-esteem and confidence. A stronger sense of self can reduce feelings of anxiety.
Social Interaction: Group exercises and team sports offer opportunities for social interaction. Connecting with others can provide emotional support and lessen feelings of isolation commonly associated with anxiety.
Mindfulness and Focus: Many forms of exercise, such as yoga and tai chi, incorporate mindfulness techniques. These practices encourage individuals to focus on the present moment, helping to reduce anxious thoughts about the past or future.
Routine and Structure: Establishing a regular exercise routine can provide structure to one's day. This predictability can be comforting for individuals struggling with anxiety.
Distraction: Engaging in physical activity serves as a distraction from anxious thoughts. Focusing on movement can redirect attention and reduce the intensity of anxiety.
Incorporating regular exercise into daily life can be an effective strategy for managing anxiety. Whether it’s walking, running, swimming, or participating in group classes, finding an enjoyable activity can lead to significant mental health benefits. When we feel out of balance in the body it is a good idea to look at our daily habits and routines and think about what we are doing each day that is moving us toward or away from balance and equanimity.
If you do not consider yourself to be a person who “worksout” don’t worry! Just 10-15 minutes of daily movement can have huge mental health benefits. Put on your favorite song and dance, go outside and garden, or play a 15 minute at home workout video and have fun!
