Author: Chaten
Has stress been getting to you lately? With school in full force, I know that things are heating up. When homework and responsibilities start to overwhelm you, it’s time to relax and de-stress a little, and a fantastic way to do that is through exercise.
You see, exercise isn’t just useful for someone who wants to improve their physical condition, it’s also a great way to deal with anxiety and stress. You’ve probably already felt this effect, it’s that awesome feeling you get once you finish your run, or after finishing a grueling hockey practice. This “rush” of joy and bliss you get, is commonly called “runners high,” and it’s caused by small little hormones called endorphins.
These endorphins do a lot of work for you and your body, as they work tirelessly to be one of your body’s natural painkillers, and one of its most important ways of warding off anxiety and reducing stress.
Endorphins are not the only benefits of exercise either.
Endorphins are not the only benefits of exercise either. There are other benefits to exercise as well, like how exercise is a way that people can lose weight or maintain your weight. For example, a 30 minute walk can burn around 200 calories, and if you pick up the pace a bit to a jog, you can burn up to 400 calories in 30 minutes. If exercise is made a habit, it can help to develop stronger bones, and cut your risk of heart disease later in life.
If you have a goal to lose weight, be careful not to get wrapped up in a negative body image or in thinking and speaking poorly of yourself and your body. Exercise and caring about how you look should be a part of a balance in your life, not an obsession. If you are struggling with body image issues or disordered eating, we can help. Talk to us.
In most cases exercise can be a fun and fulfilling part of a healthy and happy life.
Fun and easy ways to exercise
Starting to exercise, and trying to set up a good routine can be hard, so here are a few great ways to start moving.
1. Join a team/club
This is a great way to exercise if you enjoy playing sports or if you just want to exercise with other people. Sport is also a great way to build community and self-esteem.
2. Go for a quick jog around your neighbourhood
This method is best for the people who don’t have a lot of time on their hands, or that prefer to be by themselves when they exercise.
3. Take a walk with your friends after school
Improving your physical health while also getting to talk to your bestie, seems like a win-win to me.
Exercise has always been something that our parents or our teachers have told us to do, and after looking at the science behind it all, I can see why. Exercising helps lower your stress and anxiety, while also providing the physical benefits of extending your life and helping you burn a bunch more calories.
Talking to someone can also help when we’re stressed. We’re here to listen.
