How to reduce anxiety: Get moving!

Did you know that taking a little gentle exercise on a regular basis can have a powerful effect in reducing anxiety?

The physical benefits of exercise are vast and not only keep you fit but have long been know to prevent physical conditions and dis-ease.

Exercise is also considered crucial for maintaining mental fitness, and can reduce stress. Moving your body on a regular basis reduces fatigue, improves alertness and concentration, and enhances overall cognitive function. This can be especially helpful when stress has depleted your energy or ability to concentrate.

Many anti anxiety drugs are prescribed to create an artificial production of what your body can already naturally produce in its own pharmacy.

How to reduce anxiety by moving your body

Exercise has a profound effect on anxiety for a number of reasons. For a start when you move your body, the body starts to release a cocktail of natural chemicals.

One of these chemicals is endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain killer and when you produce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, are significantly lowered.

Serotonin, a neurotransmitter which regulates sleep, libido, mood, energy and appetite is also produced when you shake that body, promoting that feel good factor. Increasing the production of these natural chemicals in the body not only helps to reduce your anxiety levels, but increases your overall health, wellbeing and resilience.

A study conducted in 1999 by A. Blumenthal, Ph.D. demonstrated that regular exercise is also as effective as antidepressant medications for patients with depression.

Now where did I leave my trainers?

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Sara Maude

Sara Maude is an Edinburgh Hypnotherapist, Solution-Focused Psychotherapist, EFT Practitioner, Transformational Coach and International Wellbeing Trainer providing in-person and online sessions. Sara provides problem-free therapy which goes deep into the heart of the unconscious mind to create powerful lasting change.