Why Does Exercise Reduce Stress?

If you’re looking for a way to relieve stress, you’ll want to consider incorporating exercise into your daily routine (with a doctor’s approval). Exercise is renowned as an excellent stress reliever, but how does it affect stress levels? Exercise can:

• Increase endorphin production – Your pituitary gland and hypothalamus produce endorphins, hormones that can help reduce stress, relieve pain, and boost mood. Exercise stimulates your body to produce more endorphins, making it a great stress reliever
• Improve your sleep – Studies show that a lack of sleep can cause someone to feel more stressed. Fortunately, exercise can help you get a better night’s sleep, which can, in turn, keep your stress levels down
• Take your mind off your worries – It can be hard to think about anything else when you're feeling stressed. But because exercise forces you to focus on your body’s movements, it can be a stress-reducing form of meditation.

If you’re not used to exercising, be sure to start slow. After all, if you end up injuring yourself, you won’t be able to enjoy any of the stress relief benefits listed above. Also, choose a workout you’ll enjoy—remember that any physical activity can qualify as exercise. Hence, if you’re more likely to stick with a routine involving dancing rather than jogging, go for it.

Still Need Help Reducing Your Stress Levels?

If you’ve tried incorporating exercise into your daily routine but you’re still feeling stressed, you may want to consider speaking to a therapist. At Core3, you can rely on our practice's experienced and skilled counseling. We understand the toll that stress can take on a person’s life, and once we’ve learned about your specific circumstances, we’ll be able to provide you with customized advice. Contact us today and book your complimentary consultation to get started.