Whether you like it or not, stress is a part of life. In small doses, it can benefit you by boosting your alertness and performance. But when you’re always stressed, it can negatively affect your health. That is why it is important to find ways to help manage and reduce your stress. Exercising offers a multitude of benefits and is a great way to reduce stress. There are specific exercises that are effective at reducing stress, so that you can live your best life.
Weightlifting
Suddenly the weight of the world feels a whole lot less of a burden when you are pumping iron. This is because you are lifting the weight up off your shoulders both physically and figuratively speaking. As you lift heavy weights, all your focus is on your breaths and muscles as you target them to get stronger. Allowing your stress induced thoughts to whisk away as you practice the simplicity of heavy weightlifting. So go ahead and grab some CanDo Dumbbells and start focusing more on working on your muscles.
Cardio
Speaking of focusing on your breathing, cardio is also a stress reliever. This is because you are focusing on putting one foot in front of the other and tuning into your breathing. Doing cardio is especially helpful when you do it outside as you are getting a dose of fresh air. Outdoor settings such as mountains, a biking trail, or a neighborhood park are pleasant places to spend time in. This allows you to think more about the beautiful settings and focus less on whatever is giving you anxiety. It is reported by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America that even a 10-minute walk outside can help reduce stress and anxiety. Just be sure that you are on a safe route and that your shoes are adequately supporting your feet.
Yoga
When you think of exercises that help reduce your stress, the first thing that probably pops into your mind is yoga. It is often thought of as the gold standard when it comes to stress relief. Whether that be an aerobic yoga workout that gets you sweating or a gentle breathing and stretching yoga workout that barely seems like exercise. Yoga can connect the mental and physical parts of yourself, increasing the inner peace of your mind and body.
In a world where your life can be chaotic and is causing you chronic stress, it is important to find a way to manage it. Exercise is a great way to alleviate your stress, but it does not just go away with one workout. You should pick an exercise that you enjoy doing the most and engage in it regularly.
For more on how exercising can reduce stress, click here.
To check out our CanDo® Dumbbells, click here.
Article written by William Graves.