Beat stress using exercise
In our working lives and our family lives, we all have to face plenty of stress from many factors that we can’t always control. However, there are numerous simple swift ways we can mitigate the influence of stress, using exercise, visualization, breathing, and meditation. The paragraphs below outline the ways your physical and mental well-being can be improved through regular physical activity and cardio exercises.
Do you know about the wellness hormone?
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter within your brain that controls moods and helps you stay awake. It’s essentially your wellness/happiness hormone. When you exercise, your brain releases serotonin, providing an energy boost that can last for several hours. Regular participation in sport or exercise is an excellent way of boosting your serotonin levels.
Ways to increase serotonin levels
The cardio routine below is quick, easy and effective in stimulating the production of serotonin and mitigating the negative influence of stress in a very short time. You can give yourself a full-body workout with just three exercises, initiating cardio activity and building up muscle endurance.
Quick and easy anti-stress cardio workout
Length: around 10 minutes
Equipment: all you need is a stable solid exercise step around 30 cm in height, comfortable clothing, and something to be used as a weight, such as a 1L or 2L water bottle.
Exercise one: the Caterpillar
Begin in a standing position, bend from the waist, then move into a plank position. To return to the standing position, walk your feet forward, knees bent.
Do this exercise for one minute. Do three reps. Take short breaks as required.
This uses all your muscles, including your abs, shoulders, chest, and quads.
Exercise two: the Step-up
Climb up and down onto your step, changing your legs each time. Use your feet to push upwards and keep your back nice and straight.
Do this for one minute. Do three reps. Take short breaks as required.
This exercise is good for using your glutes and quads.
Exercise three: the Woodchopper
Reach out with your arms and trace a semicircular pattern in the air in front of you, moving from your hip to the highest point on the opposite side.
Do this for one minute. Do three reps. Take short breaks as required.
This exercise is good for using all muscles, including arms, abs, and legs.
Follow this routine regularly and you’ll find you’re much better able to cope with the stress of your day.
