Stress levels are increasing! Research published in 2017 revealed that stress affecting the working population accounted for 30 million days being lost in the preceding 3 years and for 43% of all days off in 2014/15. So how can we best manage our stress levels? One way to do so is…. Exercise!
Exercise has been researched to have a proven benefit on the reduction of stress levels. Whether you experience low-level everyday stresses or more long-term stress it is beneficial to incorporate exercise into your daily or weekly routine.
The form of exercise does not matter, as long as it suits you. It could be an hour of yoga, a woodland walk, or a long distance run. Exercise has been shown to boost the production of endorphins, your bodies ‘feel-good’ chemicals, which provide the enhanced feeling of well being after an exercise activity. Endorphins help to modulate appetite and enhance the immune response.
Exercise also assists with the process of relaxation which, in turn, reduces stress levels. After a fast-paced game of badminton or a few lengths of the swimming pool, your body and mind is focussed upon the current task and sheds the daily tensions.