Feeling Stressed Try Exercising

February 5 2014

Feeling Stressed? Try Exercising.

According to StatisticsBrain.com, approximately 77% of people experience physical symptoms brought on by stress. Unfortunately, far too many people go through their day-to-day lives in a constant state of stress. Rather than working to address the issue, they push it to the side where it gradually builds up over time. However, there is hope on the horizon for millions of people living with stress; it’s exercise.

Study Links Exercise To Lower Stress Levels

Researchers at Saint Leo University performed a study to determine the effects of exercise on stress levels. The study involved just over 500 participants, all of whom were asked a series of questions regarding their exercise habits, lifestyle and stress levels.

The study found that participants who exercises on a regular basis experienced lower stress levels along with a greater sense of empowerment, which they carried to both their professional job roles and home.

Russel Clayton, assistant professor at Saint Leo University, said the following:

“If, for example, you go for a two-mile jog or walk 10 flights of steps at work and feel good about yourself for doing that, it will translate and carry over into other areas of life. We found that [participants] who exercised felt good about themselves, that they felt that they could accomplish tough tasks, and that carried over into work and family life,”

You can learn more about this study in the upcoming issue of Human Resource Management.

Researchers didn’t mention the reason why exercise improves stress levels, but it’s likely due to the production and release of natural chemicals in the body known as endorphins. These chemicals essentially create the feeling of happiness; therefore, it only makes sense that they would lower your stress levels. When you exercise, your body produces a greater amount of endorphins.

Common Causes of Stress

• Job/work
• Financial
• Health problems
• Relationship or marriage
• Lack of nutrition
• Insomnia
• Media overload

If you’re suffering from stress, there are a few key things to remember. First and foremost, it’s important to stay busy. Sleeping into noon everyday and going through the day with no real sense of drive or determination will only make the condition worse. Instead, find something productive to occupy your time, such as a job, school or hobby.

Of course, this recent study highlights the stress-reducing benefits of exercise, so you should keep up your levels of physical activity. Even if you don’t have a full hour to commit to the gym, you can still perform a bout of jumping jacks or grab some dumbbells for a quick workout.