The Power Of Movement On Anxiety, Stress, And More

Physical activity releases endorphins, serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline which trigger positive feelings in your brain that can make you feel less stressed and anxious. British TV personality and physician Dr. Zoe Williams says various movements can improve certain moods.

Dr. Williams also offers some helpful tips to boost mood through exercise:

• However you’re feeling on any given day there’s a movement you can do to suit your energy levels and boost your mood. Aiming to do some physical activity every day- however you wish to move – can help us feel happier and healthier and over time could allow you to build up the time you spend being physically active.
• When you wake up feeling energized, a brisk walk is a great way to get your body moving. For days that start slower, a stroll can work to get your body moving and clear your mind. Walking is a great low-impact cardio exercise which allows you to improve your fitness levels whilst being gentle on your joints.
• If you’re feeling stressed, you could try swimming for a calm and focused activity which is great for your body and mind. The swimming motion can also be done sitting on your sofa or at your desk, for an easy way to incorporate some movement into your day when you’re unable to get to a pool. The methodical movement of swimming gives you something to focus your mind on, helping to reduce stress levels, as well as releasing cortisol, which can help to manage stress.
• If you’re feeling worried or anxious, aerobic activities such as dancing, may be a great way to relieve tension and get your heart rate up in a good way. Physical activity releases endorphins, serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline which trigger positive feelings in your brain that can make you feel less stressed and anxious.
• When you’re having a mental block or feel unmotivated, getting some fresh air and moving your body outside is a great way to clear your mind. That means going for a walk, which can get more than your body moving. That’s because walking helps your heart beat faster, providing fresh oxygenated blood to your brain, allowing you to think and focus better.
• If you get to the end of the day and realize you haven’t moved as much as you could have, you could do some simple stretches before bed to help you unwind and rest easily.

The advice comes from a poll of 3,000 British adults, including 1,000 who have a long-term health condition. Results show that 67 percent of those who do some form of physical activity claim it helps their mood. A third of respondents feel their mood is lower if they don’t move or exercise as much as they usually would, with mental wellbeing the biggest factor for 18 percent, when choosing a physical activity.

Overall, 29 percent agree that some form of physical activity makes them feel “calmer” afterwards.

Source: studyfinds.org