Yep, Exercise Can Help Reduce Anxiety (Like, Right Now)
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There are tons of anxiety treatments out there. But what if you want to reduce your stress levels, like, yesterday? Here’s how working out can curb your anxious feelings.
Simply put, exercise causes your brain to release feel-good chemicals. This helps boost energy and decreases stress levels. Working out can also alleviate feelings of depression and negativity, according to a 2020 study.
Happy chemicals
In the immortal words of Elle Woods in “Legally Blonde,” “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t shoot their husbands.”
Exercise does indeed spur the release of endorphins and decrease your levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Working out also produces brain chemicals called endocannabinoids — the same chemicals mimicked by cannabis. The increased dopamine levels might make you feel more optimistic.
Full body buzz
Exercise can work wonders for your noggin. Research shows exercise activates frontal regions of the brain that help control the amygdala. This can relieve pent-up feelings of tension, stress, and anxiety.
Regular exercise can also change the default state of your nervous system, making it more balanced. When you work out, your muscles release lactate. This changes the way you react to things that might normally cause anxiety.
Studies show people who exercise regularly may be more resistant to acute anxiety. In some cases, exercise can decrease the intensity and frequency of panic attacks — heck yes!
Any kind of exercise can have positive mental health effects. Still, you might prefer some workouts more than others. Here are some awesome options.
1. Running
Ever heard of a “runner’s high”? It’s somewhat legit. Running can calm your mind and have a lasting impact on feel-good neurotransmitters. Researchers believe this is because runners have the aerobic capacity to hold a steady pace for a long time.
Building up your fitness level through regular running may also help protect against depression. Some research suggests that low cardiorespiratory fitness levels contribute to the onset of depression.
In a small 2008 study, ultramarathoners, moderate regular exercisers, and nonexercisers walked or ran for 30 minutes. Everyone’s mood improved after just one session.
Keep in mind that it might take some training before you can hit the high. Your body needs time to build stamina.
2. Yoga
Research shows a steady yoga practice can significantly reduce anxiety, stress, and symptoms of depression.
A 2018 study found that yoga can increase mindfulness and feelings of satisfaction with life. The same study also found that yoga can:
- lower heart rate
- lower blood pressure
- reduce stress responses
- prevent anxiety and depression
- increase energy and feelings of well-being
It’s also an awesome way to reduce anxiety while developing strength and breathing stamina.
3. Tai chi
This ancient Chinese martial art includes meditation and rhythmic breathing. One study found that tai chi can:
- promote relaxation
- lower blood pressure
- reduce stress and anxiety
- improve a depressed mood
- increase endorphin levels
Regular exercise provides mental health benefits similar to meditation.
4. A walk in the great outdoors
Whether you’re going for a nature walk or doing yoga in your yard, outdoor exercise has additional mental health benefits. A 2015 study found that young adults who went on a 50-minute nature walk felt less anxious afterward.
A 2009 study found that participants who did a 20-minute nature walk had lower stress hormone levels than participants who were in the city.
Time in nature can:
- lower pulse rate
- lower blood pressure
- lower levels of cortisol
- lower sympathetic nerve activity
5. Make it a family affair
Happy hour is great, but exercising together is bomb. A 2017 study found that group movement releases endorphins. Research has also found that exercising with friends motivates us to develop healthy behaviors. Double win!
- yoga
- cycling
- walking
- hiking
- biking
- dance
- kickboxing
- water aerobics
You don’t need to commit to hour-long workout seshes on the daily. Research suggests that exercising for about 30 minutes three or four times per week can be enough to improve mood.
- Do something you enjoy. If you hate your workout, you’re not going to put your all into it. Pick an activity that keeps your attention.
- Don’t consider it a chore. Instead, view it as a way to feel happier and more confident.
- Find distractions. A 30-minute session on the elliptical will fly by when you’re watching a TV show or rocking out to a bangin’ playlist.
- Work out with a friend. Group workouts can increase feelings of joy. Planning exercise dates will also hold you more accountable.
- Put it in your planner. Make it feel like something you can’t miss instead of a last-minute decision.
- Work out where you feel comfortable. You don’t have to join a gym. You can have a killer workout in the comfort of your own home.
- Be patient with the process. Set small, realistic goals. This will motivate you to hit your targets and keep going strong.
Is exercise not cutting it? Don’t worry. Working out isn’t your only option. There are other ways to reduce anxiety ASAP.
Progressive relaxation
This technique can be uber-relaxing. Research has shown it’s an effective way to ease anxiety and depression.
Here’s how you do it:
- Tense and release each muscle group in your body, starting at your toes and working your way up.
- Try to keep your mind space clear.
- Focus on your breath.
Four-square breathing
Four-square breathing (aka box breathing) is a mindful breath exercise. It can help you chill out ASAP.
Try this:
- Sit upright.
- Slowly inhale through your nose.
- Hold your breath for a slow count of four.
- Slowly exhale through your mouth.
- Hold your breath for a count of four.
- Repeat as needed.
Listen to your favorite song
What’s a song that makes you feel happy no matter what? Turn it up! Research suggests music can lower levels of cortisol and ease stress and anxiety.
Write it out
Journaling can be therapeutic AF. Writing out your thoughts is a good way to explore what you’re feeling. This can help you process the roots of your anxiety.
Get creative
Art therapy can reduce stress and help you manage negative emotions. Do anything that tickles your creative fancy. Grab an adult coloring book, play an instrument, paint, or take an online art class.
If you’re feeling that anxious itch, a workout might be just what you need to de-stress. Science says working out may help lessen anxiety while giving you a boost of energy.
The goal is to feel better, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself if you’re not up for a full workout. Start slow, experiment with types of movement, and enjoy the ride.
Get more info here: greatist.com/health/reduce-anxiety