Improving Your Health Through Exercise
In this fast-paced, ambitious society in which we
live, stress has become an increasingly common problem among people of all ages,
regardless of their gender, income levels, education levels, places of
residence, etc. Although a certain amount of stress is necessary (and even
positive) in a person's life, too much stress can wreak havoc and create health
problems, if not acknowledged and dealt with in a salubrious manner.
There are many methods available for reducing
stress in one's life. Too often, however, we get so tied up in our daily
routines that we aren't even aware of just how stressed out we may be! Or, if we
DO recognize that we're really stressed out, we may not set aside time in our
busy schedules to do anything about it. (Sound familiar?)
Stress-filled lifestyles often lead to emotional,
mental, and physical problems. Among those problems are depression, sleep
disorders, weakened immune systems, heart disease…even difficulty socializing
with other people. Too much stress sends the body into its self-protection mode
and triggers the autonomic nervous system's "fight or flight"
response.
This mechanism is necessary to our survival…up
to a point. It is the body's attempt to return to normalcy. Yet, when the body's
alarm system is triggered excessively, it can be even more harmful to one's
health than whatever stressor originally triggered this response. Therefore,
it's very important to address the issue of stress and to learn how to manage
it, so that we can lead healthy, productive, and enjoyable lives.
Studies have shown that one of the best methods
of managing stress is regular exercise. One such study, performed by Stanford
University School Of Medicine, found that as little as 30 to 40 minutes of
exercise, done regularly each week, may result in lower stress and
stress-related conditions, such as depression. (Note: exercise MUST be performed
regularly for it to have a continuing effect on stress.)
According to fitness experts, Charles Corbin and
Ruth Lindsey, "aerobic exercise is believed to be especially effective in
reducing anxiety and relieving stress (though a wide variety of other activities
are also good)."
Corbin and Lindsey go on to say that exercise
"reduces the levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine, the catecholamines
that prepare a person for fight or flight, and thus reduces the end result of
stress." As a result of a regular exercise program, such as during
treadmill workouts, you will become more
fit and healthy, as well. And, the healthier you are, the more mentally,
emotionally, and physically capable you are of coping with stress.
Whenever I feel really stressed, exercise tends
to not only help relieve that stress, but it also has the power to divert my
attention and thoughts to something more pleasant and positive. I'm happier and
healthier! My energy level is increased! My mental focus is clearer! And, I also
notice an improvement in my self-esteem!
So, if you're among the great masses who face
excess stress in their everyday lives (as many of us do), get out there and
exercise! Incorporate more physical activities into your daily routines to
release tension and frustration. Be sure to choose an exercise program that you
find enjoyable and easy to stick with! And, then…as the Nike slogan goes,
"Just do it!" You'll feel better in the long run!
Cyndi Schoenhals
Fitness writer
This article is provided by Smooth Fitness, offering treadmills factory direct.
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