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Exercise is one of simplest and most effective means of stress reduction because they help you metabolize stress hormones, as well as bring other benefits.

Whether you prefer jogging or a gentle swim, yoga, golf or a brisk walk in the park, we all feel better after some exercise.

Exercise and Stress Hormones

Exercise can decrease ‘stress hormones' like cortisol, and increase endorphins, your body's ‘feel-good’ chemicals, giving your mood a natural boost. (This is the chemistry behind a ‘runner’s high’.)

Exercise and Relaxation

A small amount of exercise every day brings on “relaxation response”. According to Dr. Benson, “by repeating a muscular activity for 10-20 minutes twice a day, you can reduce symptoms of stress, increase your sense of wellbeing and create a feeling of being in control.”  

Exercise not only improves your health and reduces stress caused by unfitness; it also relaxes tense muscles and helps you to sleep.

Other Benefits of Exercise:

Physical Benefits

-Increases general circulation
-Improves muscle strength and tone
-Improves cardiovascular function
-Elevates metabolism and helps to burn more calories; increases the oxidation of fat.
-Improves bone density
-Maintains normal function after an injury-Improves level of fitness and stamina

-Improves " body composition "through muscle gain and fat loss
-Increases the amount of oxygen available to body tissues

Psychological Benefits

 
-Lifts mood
-Improves self-awareness
-Reduces stress and anxiety
-Reduces mild/moderate depression
-Improves self esteem
-Increases confidence
-Reduces aggression

Time To Take Action: 

My favourite exercises are jogging, walking and yoga.

As far as I have neither time nor desire to join gym I find Itrain MP3 downloads very helpful.

What are some ways you get out and get active when you have the time to really enjoy your exercise?

Share in the comments section below.

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