Mental health is a significant concern worldwide. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health disorders in the world, affecting millions of people. While medication and therapy are effective treatments for anxiety, some people prefer natural treatments. One effective natural remedy is exercise. Exercise is not only essential for physical health, but it can also improve mental health, specifically alleviate anxiety.
How Does Exercise Help With Anxiety?
Studies show that exercise benefits the body in many ways, including reducing anxiety. Exercise helps release endorphins, which are feel-good hormones that help improve mood. When you exercise, the body produces endorphins that help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Also, exercise diverts the mind from negative thoughts and helps focus on the physical activity, reducing anxiety.
What Exercises Help Alleviate Anxiety?
All forms of exercise can help alleviate anxiety, but some are best suited for the job. Cardiovascular activities like running, biking, and fitness classes, are excellent for reducing anxiety. These activities raise the heart rate and breathe in more oxygen, increasing the release of endorphins. Yoga is also an effective exercise that provides mind and body relaxation. It includes calm, deep breathing and poses that can help reduce anxiety symptoms.
How Much Exercise Is Required to Reduce Anxiety?
The amount of exercise required for anxiety reduction varies from person to person. However, research suggests that 30 minutes of exercise daily encourages the release of endorphins, helping improve mood. You do not have to perform strenuous exercises to alleviate anxiety. Mild to moderate intensity exercise, like walking, is enough to experience the benefit of exercise.
What is the Best Time to Exercise for Anxiety Reduction?
Exercise can be performed any time, but morning exercise is the most effective for anxiety reduction. Morning exercise jumpstarts endorphin release and improves mood throughout the day. Exercise regularly at a fixed time to form a routine, which is essential in developing exercise as a habit.
Other Benefits of Exercise for Mental Health
Apart from anxiety reduction, regular exercise provides other benefits for mental health. Exercise has been shown to help with conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Exercise is also an excellent way to increase self-esteem and develop a good mood. Additionally, exercise promotes better sleep and helps with weight management.
Exercise is a natural and effective way to alleviate anxiety and improve overall mental health. Exercise helps release feel-good hormones that help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Cardio, yoga, and moderate physical activities can help alleviate anxiety. The best time to exercise for anxiety reduction is in the morning to jumpstart endorphin release. Regular exercise can also provide many other mental health benefits, including self-esteem development and weight management. Start an exercise routine to develop a habit that can provide many benefits for both your physical and mental health.