Fitness and How it Manages Stress
When you are under stress, your body goes into the ‘fight or flight’ mode. This means that stress can evoke or trigger an actual physiological response. It brings forth some temporary changes such as an increase in heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and an increase in the amount of blood pumped to the heart and large muscles. This response of the body proves useful in cases of perceived threat or dangerous situations, and eventually, the body returns to its normal state.
However, long-term stress does not allow the body to relax. There is a consistent strain on the body, heart, and blood vessels. It increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension. Chronic stress can also affect your digestion, nutrient absorption, respiratory system, and reproductive system. It can also lead to chronic fatigue, muscle tension, and pain. It also increases the chances of developing several mental and physical health conditions. Chronic stress can have several adverse effects on health and fitness.
It is in your hands to reverse that scenario. If you work on your health and fitness, it will help you manage stress and stressful situations in a better way. Incorporate exercise into your daily routine and pay attention to your diet. Since the body tries extra hard to maintain balance during stress, nutrients may get depleted, causing deficiencies and related issues. Counter this problem by supplementing your diet with the best multivitamins.
Exercise can serve as an amazing stress reliever. Even a little exercise can prove very beneficial. Read on to find out how exercise can help combat stress:
Physical exercise can offer protection from the harmful effects of stress. Stress increases the risk of diseases, while exercise boosts the immune system and thereby lowers the risk of diseases. Exercise also plays a role in slowing down the release of stress hormones.
Endorphins are the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters. They serve as a buffer against pain. Exercise amps up the production of endorphins and boosts the level of circulating endocannabinoids. Endorphins increase the sensation of pleasure and block pain. Endocannabinoids improve mood, reduce anxiety, induce calmness, and produce the feeling of euphoria.
There is a close connection between stress and sleep. Stress adversely affects sleep, while inadequate sleep leads to an increase in stress. It’s like a vicious cycle. Exercise can break this cycle. Working out can improve the quality of sleep, and also help you fall asleep faster. Any form of physical activity can lead to better sleep.
Chronic stress can slow down metabolism and may lead to an increase in food cravings. This means that long-term stress can lead to weight gain. Exercise, on the other hand, helps to manage weight better, and improves body composition. It also improves body image and confidence. With this boost in confidence, you’ll find yourself in a better position to deal with pressure, uncertainty, and change. It can considerably reduce your stress level.
Fitness activities can serve as meditation in motion. Such activities increase mindfulness and make you focus on your body’s movements, effectively taking your attention away from the stressful factors in your life. It’s even better if you tackle your workout outdoors.
Wrapping Up
Working on your fitness not only improves your physical health but also proves very beneficial for your mental health. If you cannot dedicate an hour or more at a stretch to exercise, it’s not a problem. Take ten minutes at a time, whenever you can, and do a quick workout or stretch for a bit. Exercise will elevate your positivity, enhance your performance, improve your productivity, increase mental clarity, and most importantly, help you tackle stress effectively.