Most people feel stressed sometimes and although some stress can be helpful, too much stress can make us ill. So how do we find the right balance to ensure we don’t tip into the danger zone? Sweat it out!
Exercise in almost any form plays a key role in stress relief, distracting you from your daily worries. Any type of exercise can decrease your stress. However, it’s important to choose an activity that you enjoy rather than dread. And ensure it’s appropriate for your level of fitness.
What is the recommended weekly activity level?
At least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week is recommended (Chief Medical Officer’s physical activity guidelines), for example:
Or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity a week such as:
By increasing effort over time, you’ll soon be finding activity you once found vigorous has become moderate! There’s a great infographic to explain.
Exercise improves your body’s blood flow and ability to use oxygen. Both of which directly affect the brain which increases your brain’s production of endorphins. Endorphins are the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitters responsible for the ‘runner’s high.’ This is the sense of well-being and euphoria that many people experience after exercise.
On 2 November it is National Stress Awareness Day, which aims to raises awareness and highlight the many ways that stress can affect you and what you can do to manage your stress before it becomes a problem.
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