Managing Stress Through Exercise

Exercise has and will remain a crucial part of every person’s well-being. Not only for their physical health but for their mental health as well. Has anyone said or heard the expression; "If you eat junk you are bound to feel like junk?" Well, the same goes for your body. Treat it badly and it’ll treat you badly.

It is no doubt that exercise feeds fuel to the brain. Your body is somewhat restored and empowered by movement. Your heart beats faster, your body starts moving, and you cannot contain the positive, powerful feeling within that arises.

When I am tired, rather than going back to bed, which could be so easy, I stretch.Then I begin. After stretching for at least 15 minutes, I begin with arm rolls, then cycling on my stationary bike. Depending on time, I may go for a brisk walk. I must admit, I feel wonderful. Both my body and soul feel complete. I run, swim and go hiking. I have so much energy after exercising.

Aerobic exercises are excercises where oxygen is used to produce energy, in order to fuel the body for prolonged activity. These exercises are performed at moderate intensity for longer duration.

Anaerobic exercises, on the other hand, are exercises inwhich the energy requirement of the body exceeds that provided by breathing, and body is forced to work without oxygen.  Due to the lack of oxygen, anaerobic exercises are only performed for short durations.

You would think that it would exhaust you, but I always felt like I could go on and on. The days I exercised I actually accomplished so much more than the days I would not. My mind was clearer as well. I also felt better physically. The headaches I often experience would lesson. My lower back wasn’t nearly as tight and my moods would become more positive and upbeat.

I prefer aerobic exercises compared to anaerobic. Weight lifting and strenuous exercises that are of high intensity are not my thing. I enjoy exercising when it really doesn’t feel like I’m beating myself up. Also, I find that aerobic exercises allow me to think as I work-out. I have resolved many conflicts within by taking a long walk or jogging. Also, excercise, such as walking, also allows me much needed “alone time”

I have seen the benefits of exercise first hand. My father has high blood pressure and heart problems. He was very inactive and slept much of the time. His wife began walking after dinner and eventually he joined her. Since then, his weight has dropped, his heart has become stronger and his blood pressure is leveling. His moods and overall outlook on life has improved as well. He very seldom naps during the day anymore.

I have worked with the elderly for many years and have seen the benefits that happen with them excercising. Many elderly have come into the nursing facility depressed and with many health problems. Exercise has lightened their moods and helped with bone strength as well as appetite. Belonging to a group has helped with their social being. It's fun and healthy all in one!

Now, don't get me wrong. I am no "health nut" and I do not have the perfect body by any means. But I know what I know about myself and I feel good. I don't need antidepressants or some other drug to alter my moods, I just need to move my body. I feel that all of us, overweight or not, need to exercise daily. It is quite obvious that exercise is beneficial to all, body and soul.

Now, get off the computer and go for a walk!