The next big medication isn’t Ozempic, it isn’t adderal, it isn’t (or at least shouldn’t be) the next newest prescription for health fixes. The next big treatment to prescribe should be exercise. When I traveled abroad to Greece two years ago with my University’s Sport’s Psychology program, Greek researchers raved about the results of prescribing exercise for their patients who are struggling with their mental health. Simply saying “eat well and exercise” isn’t enough. They worked directly with professionals and patients to develop reasonable plans to help re-emphasize to people that exercise is a massive part of their personal hygiene, and that it can change their lives.
Why Exercise Is Essential for Managing Anxiety
Anxiety is something many people struggle with. It can range from mild discomfort to extremely crippling, and finding relief isn’t always straightforward. A natural and powerful solution to anxiety management, often overlooked, is exercise. Incorporating regular movement into your routine can help build SERENE STRENGTH – a combination of physical endurance and mental resilience. Let’s explore why exercise is essential for managing anxiety and how it can lead to a more balanced, peaceful life.
How Exercise Impacts the Brain
Exercise influences the brain on both a chemical and structural level. Physical activity releases endorphins, sometimes referred to as the body’s “feel-good” hormones, which can significantly improve mood and help reduce stress. According to the Mayo Clinic, these endorphins can counterbalance some of the emotional and physical symptoms that come with anxiety, such as muscle tension, irritability, and lack of focus (Mayo Clinic).
Additionally, exercise promotes the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which plays a key role in mood regulation. Increased serotonin helps stabilize feelings of well-being and calmness, both of which are important for anxiety management. Physical activity also supports the brain’s ability to handle stress through the growth of new neural pathways and by improving neuroplasticity, making it easier to maintain emotional balance (American Psychological Association).
Building SERENE STRENGTH Through Regular Exercise
SERENE STRENGTH is the blend of physical and mental resilience that can help mitigate the impact of anxiety. Exercise contributes to this serene strength by improving both physical endurance and mental clarity. When you engage in activities that test your strength and stamina, you train your body to handle stress better. Mayo Clinic points out that aerobic activities like jogging, swimming, and cycling can reduce overall stress and anxiety levels, while even short sessions of exercise can give a boost in mood (Mayo Clinic). On a psychological level, the act of committing to exercise creates a routine and sense of accomplishment, both of which are foundational for mental resilience. American Psychological Association (APA) research suggests that having a structured outlet, like a consistent workout schedule, can make a big difference in how well people cope with stress and anxiety over time (American Psychological Association).
Breaking the Cycle of Physical Tension
Anxiety often leads to physical tension, which can contribute to further emotional stress – creating a harmful cycle. Exercise is an effective way to interrupt this cycle. According to Mayo Clinic, physical activity helps to alleviate muscle tension and encourages relaxation, which can prevent physical symptoms from exacerbating mental ones (Mayo Clinic). Engaging in low-impact activities, such as walking or yoga, can also promote serene strength by focusing on breath control and mindful movement. These practices not only relax the body but also create a sense of mental calm, a state that allows for clearer thinking and a reduction in anxiety symptoms.
While exercise is beneficial, it’s not a complete solution for everyone dealing with anxiety. Mayo Clinic and APA both recommend viewing exercise as part of a broader mental health strategy, potentially alongside therapy or medication if necessary. As a non-invasive, low-cost, and accessible option, physical activity remains one of the most effective and widely endorsed methods for managing anxiety and achieving lasting results.
Check out my story here, and how implementing weight lifting into my life has helped improve my anxiety.
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