Stress is a part of life - between managing family life, a social life, and career expectations, stress will find a way to creep into our everyday affairs. Stress is never easy to manage, as it can grow to become overwhelming and lead to high-anxiety fits, episodes of depression, overeating, or drug & substance abuse. Through stressful times, it’s important to remember that your physical health needs to be prioritized. Here are some exercises that can help reduce stress:

Relationship Between Exercise and Anxiety 

Stress and anxiety will affect everybody at some point in their life, however, anxiety disorders affect people much differently. Studies suggest that one in four Canadians will experience an anxiety disorder. Remaining active when anxiety and stress become overwhelming can be tough and unmotivating but stick with it! Being active and going for a ten-minute walk can be just as beneficial for stress management as a one-hour gym session. Exercise improves circulation and blood flow which allows your brain to receive more oxygen which has been linked to coping better with stress and anxiety.

Exercise as a Therapeutic Remedy

Stress and anxiety can lead to a state of debility where one is unable to think clearly without prescription drugs. These drugs are designed to help a stressed individual remain calm and cope with their stress. While medication is important, its impacts are best felt when coupled with daily exercise. Strengthening your body can provide a sense of relief for your mental state. It may seem daunting to prepare yourself for an intense or moderate workout, but many stressed-out individuals learn to take their minds off their worries & concerns once their heart rate ramps up and they begin feeling the burn of a good workout. 

Exercise Tips for Stress

If you’re turning to exercise to cope and manage your stress, it’s important to stay consistent. Exercising for at least 3- 4 hours per week may drastically improve your mood and reduce stress. Here are some exercises to keep in mind if you’re just starting to work out.

• Go for a 30-minute jog, run or walk 4-5 times per week (switch up your speed occasionally to test your cardio)
• Set realistic goals instead of striving for the “ultimate workout” - lifting more than you can or running more than you can, will overtire you.
• Sign up for group exercise classes
• Practice yoga

At Physiocare Physiotherapy, we’re dedicated to reducing your stress levels so that you can continue being the best version of yourself. Our team of registered physiotherapists have methods such as yoga therapy, massage therapy and TCM acupuncture which are all used to relax patients and free them from their stress. We’re also proud to host programs such as Anatomy Trains In Motion for people looking to truly understand the relationship between exercise, body and mind. For more information, contact Physiocare Physiotherapy today!