Why Exercise Relieves Anxiety

When you get anxious, exercise is most likely the last thing on your mind. However, after you get motivated, exercise can make all the difference in relieving your anxiety. Being able to clear your head entirely and block any outside distractions makes all the difference. It’ll help you forget what you’re anxious about and you’ll be able to focus on working out and energizing your body. It’s not uncommon for both children and adults to feel anxious at times, so here are a few explanations on how physical activity aids in easing and managing your anxiety.

Regular exercise can help alleviate anxiety by releasing natural brain chemicals that enhance your well-being. Exercise helps us biologically to feel better and pumps positive hormones throughout our body. It also takes your mind off your worries so you get a mental and physical break from the cycle of negative thoughts that feeds anxiety. Exercise serves as an outlet to cope in a healthy way instead of dwelling on your thoughts and feelings or brushing your anxiety off, hoping it’ll go away by itself. Physical activity offers a healthy, relieving channel to release all your anxiety and tension.

Working out additionally helps your body lower stress hormones like cortisol, helping you feel calm and more in control of your life. Starting off your day with cardio exercises is ideal, as you’ll start your day with the release of endorphins. Anything that will get your heart pumping and energy levels high will positively affect your body, and therefore positively affect your mind.

Try out different exercises and figure out what works best to relieve your anxiety. Finding what you enjoy and what you’re comfortable with is important in your journey to managing your anxiety through exercise. Remember that consistency is key in handling your stress and anxiety in a healthy, sustainable manner. Listen to your body and mind and do what feels the best for yourself!