Exercise and Anxiety

 

Did you know that reports of anxiety are up 25% over the past couple of years?

 

I personally think this number is low since anxiety shows up in different ways for different people … and it’s not always easy to recognize it as anxiety.

 

A few ways it can show up:

  • feeling restless or agitated,
  • having headaches and/or unexplained pains,
  • trouble focusing,
  • feeling tired,
  • disrupted sleep,
  • worrying, or
  • rolling the same-old, same-old thoughts over and over in your mind.

 

One of the best natural ways to get almost immediate relief from anxiety is to MOVE YOUR BODY – especially with workouts that get your heart rate up!

 

Exercise works in a few different ways to help my clients feel better, and studies show it rivals some prescription meds.  (Pretty awesome!)

 

Here are a few ways exercise helps battle anxiety:

 

  • It can get your mind off of whatever is making you feel anxious by making you focus on your body movements instead
  • The very act of moving stops your muscles from being so tense
  • Getting your heart rate up boosts anti-anxiety brain chemicals
  • Plus, it activates the part of your brain that helps control the amygdala  (Your amygdala can trigger feelings of fear & anxiety)
  • PLUS … exercising regularly can help you become less vulnerable to strong emotions

 

The more regular people are about getting exercise, the better their anxiety-killing results.

 

For the best results, find activities that get your heart rate up AND that you like doing – and keep doing them.

 

It could be an after-dinner walk … a dance class … paddling on the lake with friends ... taking up a social sport like tennis ... or going for a bike ride!

 

And … if you are experiencing serious anxiety, be sure to tell your doctor.

 

Just another reason to move your body or get in that workout!

 

Make it an amazing day,

 

PS:  Haven't the foggiest idea of how to get an exercise program started?  One that you can do anywhere in the world for FREE?  Even if you don't know how to do the various movements and don't have any equipment?

I've got the perfect solution for you!

Learn more here:    Mix & Match Workout Builder Guide  

 

 

REFERENCE:

www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders

www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-exercise-help-treat-anxiety-2019102418096