How to Reduce Stress Through Exercise

Exercise is an excellent way to reduce the stress in your life. Follow these steps to find tranquility through your workouts.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Comfortable clothing
• Properly fitted running or walking shoes/sneakers
• Exercise equipment or gym membership (optional)

Learn How to Reduce Stress Through Exercise

1. Recognize that stress promotes the production of certain chemicals in the body, such as adrenaline. These chemical agents can increase blood pressure while channeling blood flow to the extremities and away from organs where oxygen is needed for cell renewal and growth.

2. Take a brisk walk around the block on a daily basis. You might even invite a few friends or neighbors to join you to combine socializing with exercise.

3. Skip driving to work and ride a bike or walk to the office instead. Note that you will need to allow yourself more time to reach your destination.

4. Window shop while getting your exercise. Mall walking is very popular among seniors and others who for whatever reason cannot walk outdoors.

5. Practice relaxation exercises to reduce your stress level. Deep breathing, light stretching and practicing disciplines such as yoga or Tai chai are excellent ways to ground and center.

6. Consider obtaining a membership at your local gym or health club to take advantage of a variety of exercise equipment and classes to help you reduce stress. Most facilities also provide sessions with a personal trainer who can assess your current fitness status and customize an exercise program to help you achieve your goals.

Tips & Warnings

• In addition to a regular exercise routine, you can also help to reduce your stress through proper diet. A diet rich in whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and low in saturated fats is ideal.

• Stress can contribute to certain diseases, such as heart disease, by increasing blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels. Stress can also compromise the immune system.

• Get clearance from a health care practitioner before embarking on an exercise regimen, especially if a medical condition exists.

• Make sure you're wearing the correct shoes or sneakers for the activity you're participating in. Improper or ill-fitting foot wear can easily lead to injury, such as tiny fractures of the tarpals.