4 Ways Exercise Relieves Stress

Stressed about school or work? Not enough time to work out? Make time, it is proven that exercise relieves stress.

Instead of attentively listening to the lecture in class, you are making a to-do list in your head about everything you have to do when you get home. Your brain becomes overloaded. To make it worse when you get out of class you stop at the convenient store and rack up on sugar, energy drinks, and your favorite caffeinated beverage. Then you go home, pull out the books, and suddenly crash -- your alarm wakes you up at 8 a.m. the next morning. Does this sound familiar?

Exercise Provides Energy

If it did, don’t worry there is a cure for this stress -- EXERCISE. In the article, “Exercise to Relieve Stress,” BeachBody confirms that if exercise was a drug, it would be the most powerful medication on the earth. So drop the 5 hour energy shots, and become energized by the release of your own endorphins.

Exercise Relieves Stress

Triathlete and LA-based fitness trainer Erica Nemmers states, “Exercise releases hormones into the body that allow people to bring balance into their lives and focus better on everything they do. It is the natural remedy that brings the body into homeostasis in a hectic world that constantly threatens to throw us out of that balance." After 20 minutes of exercise your body releases these endorphins which can lower your stress level.

Exercise improves the immune system and sleeping habits

Exercise is also known to improve the immune system and sleeping habits. With that being said, you can save your sick days for a planned vacation and you can sleep soundly (hopefully without nightmares about the next meeting with your boss or your next big test).

Whether you are still a college student or have a full time job, exercise can benefit your overall wellbeing. Don’t the let the stress or lack of time interfere with you hitting up the gym, running with your dog, or working out in your own living room. Instead, make exercise a priority in your life so you can improve your mind, body, academics, and/or work.

**Remember to consult a doctor before beginning any exercise program!


Sharol Miller
Career Educator