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Always consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
Exercise is a GREAT stress reliever. In today's world everyone seems to have a lot of stress, and the older we get, the more we sit around and dwell on bad situations. Exercise can beat out the defeat of stressful situations.
Whether you are getting ready for the holidays, raising a family, holding down two jobs, or all the above—life can get really stressful. It is up to us to take control of our lives and do all that we can to "keep the peace." We should all be endeavoring to grow and mature in our lives and exercise helps us stay peaceful by relieving stress. Exercise can keep us mentally secure.
Running and muscle tonning can make you feel good, regardless of the circumstances that are happening in your life. Exercise is essential for fitness and sustaining a good weight level, and although those things are important, exercise helps us deal with the stress in our everyday lives. We need to give our bodies a good workout so we can maintain a positive attitude in the middle of our stressful times.
Exercise is a great prescription for stress. Why? Because exercise releases endorphins in our bodies, which are neurotransmitters (biochemical substances) in the brain that, among other things, produce a sense of well-being. When we exercise, we not only feel stronger and healthier, but we are also better able to deal with the day-to-day stress in our lives. It helps us take life in stride.
Exercise also encourages the nerve cells in our brains to secrete other neurotransmitters-serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine—which are known to minimize anxiety. Many researchers believe exercise is the best antidepressant available.
If you struggle with depression or anxiety, exercise regularly. It is a natural, healthy way to combat depression.
Depression is a growing concern in the nation. Reports by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services state that "Medicare spending on depression treatment and services has grown from $1.3 billion in 1992 to $2.1 billion in 2000 and is estimated to increase to $2.5 billion in 2004."
Their studies also indicate "In adults with affective disorders, physical activity has a beneficial effect on symptoms of depression and anxiety."
Research also suggests that exercise may stimulate the growth of new brain cells that enhance memory and learning—two functions that are hampered by depression.
Exercise is also proven to relieve muscle tension and improve our ability to relax. This is especially important when we are overwhelmed or stressed out. Have you ever gone to bed exhausted, yet were unable to relax enough to go to sleep? Well research shows that exercisers go to sleep more quickly, sleep more soundly and are more refreshed in the morning than individuals who do not exercise. So if you're having trouble sleeping, work out to help you relax.
Where stress is concerned, exercise is an excellent natural remedy. It can help us achieve a sense of well-being, aid us in dealing with depression and anxiety, and help us sleep better.
Now if that were all the benefits of exercise, wouldn't it be worth it to make exercise part of your daily routine? But that's not all.
There are many more benefits such as, exercise:
1. Increases your stamina and endurance
2. Reduces your risk for heart disease and stroke
3. Strengthens your immune system
4. Strengthens your bones and joints, decreasing the chance for osteoporosis
5. Decreases your appetite—acts as a natural appetite suppressant
6. Increases the number of calories you burn, accelerating weight loss and encouraging weight control
7. Strengthens your heart and lungs so that they will work more efficiently
8. Decreases a woman's risk for breast cancer
9. Decreases your blood pressure and LDL or "bad" cholesterol while raising your HDL or "good" cholesterol
10. Improves circulation and supplies more oxygen to the brain thereby increasing your ability to think and reason
11. Understanding the value of exercise can positively affect our attitude toward it and help us become committed to it.
Get Motivated — Get Started
Okay, you may be thinking, all that sounds really great, but I don't have the time to exercise, especially with demands my family and job have on me.
I understand how busy you are. But if you will make exercise a priority, you can find the time. If you want to defy the aging process and live happily and have a healthy lifesyle, exercise will help you achieve that.
And by the way, it doesn't have to be something you dread. There are many enjoyable ways to exercise. The main thing is to get moving. Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any kind of exercise program. Then find something you can do and do it. Begin by walking-its a great way to start exercising. You can gradually increase your time and speed, and gain a higher level of fitness. You'll love the way it makes you feel.
Keep things interesting. You can mix up your workouts a little. One day take a walk during your lunch hour, and the next day visit the gym with a friend, or try out an aerobics class. Here are some fun suggestions of aerobic exercise to choose from: hiking, jogging, cycling, swimming, kick-boxing, rollerblading, cross-country skiing and stair-climbing.
Keep in mind that any time change is desired—work is required. Whether your challenge is getting an unfit body fit, or gaining a higher level of fitness, or exercising as a means of stress relief, the benefits will far outweigh the challenge in the end. So stick with it. Consistency is the key.
Lasting Peace and Joy
Clearly, exercise is one of the most effective forms of stress relief available. And through consistent exercise, you will experience many benefits, including a sense of well-being and a greater peace in dealing with a hectic schedule or a bad experience. Like I said earlier, exercise is one of the best prescriptions for stress.
Stress Reducing Exercises
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