Being of a certain age and living a demanding life can be synonymous with feeling stressed at times. It is one of the most common problems faced by those between the ages of 40 and 55, and it can have a significant impact on our health and overall well-being. Exercise is one of the most powerful tools at our disposal to reduce stress in our lives and improve our quality of life. In this blog article, we will explore the connection between stress and exercise and how to apply different methods of exercise to our everyday lives to better manage and reduce the effects of stress.
There are several different ways that exercise can help to reduce stress in our lives. One of the most important is by releasing endorphins, which are hormones that act as natural painkillers and also have mood-boosting effects. Exercise also helps to reduce the level of the stress hormone cortisol in our bodies, and it can increase our levels of serotonin, which is a chemical that helps to regulate our mood and is often referred to as the ‘happy hormone’.
In addition to the physical benefits, exercise can also help to reduce stress by providing us with a distraction from the sources of stress in our lives. It can be a much-needed break from work or family obligations, and it can give us time to focus on ourselves and our own well-being. It can also help to improve our sleep, which is often disturbed by stress, and it can give us a sense of accomplishment and empowerment.
So, how can we incorporate exercise into our lives to reduce stress? First of all, it is important to find an activity that you enjoy and that you can stick to regularly. This could be anything from walking, running or cycling, to swimming, lifting weights or taking a yoga or Pilates
class. It is also important to make sure that you are realistic in your goals and expectations, and that you start slowly and build up gradually. If you are new to exercise, or if you have been inactive for a while, it is important to check with your doctor before starting any new physical activity.
Once you have found an activity that you enjoy and that you can stick to regularly, try to fit it into your day in a way that works for you. If you have a busy schedule, you may find that early morning exercise is best, as it can help to set you up for the day ahead. If you have more time, you may prefer to exercise in the evening to wind down from the day. It is also important to make sure that you are consistent with your exercise routine, and that you schedule in time for at least 3-4 sessions per week.
If you are finding it difficult to stick to a regular exercise routine, there are several things that you can do to make it easier. First of all, try to exercise with a friend or family member, as this can help to make it more enjoyable and accountable. You could also join a local sports team or club,
