Take Control of your Body and your Life

Whether you are experiencing anxiety or depression, both of these mental illnesses bring inexorable stress to a persons life. Stress can interrupt with the daily routines of our lives, and often seems impossible to get rid of. So how can you take control of a feeling that seems inescapable?

While exercise would be an obvious answer, we know that sometimes the stress we are feeling can prevent us from fitting that daily exercise routine into our lives. When it comes to stress however, virtually ANY form of exercise can be extremely beneficial in combating that feeling that you're doomed.

So this means that you don't have to just run like the woman in the image above, but you could walk, do yoga, lift weights, or even just pick up something as simple as a hula hoop. Exercise is never confined to one form, and that's the beauty in having the freedom to pick whichever is most comfortable to you and your situation!

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), the physical benefits of exercise have long been established by physicians in not only improving our physical condition, but fighting off disease as well. You really can't go wrong with exercise, as long as it practiced with a balance.

When stress takes over our minds and its many nerve connections, our entire body feels the brunt as well. So it really stands true, that when we feel good about our body we can also feel good about our mind.

Here's three key reasons why:

1. Endorphins love to be pumped up!

Physical activity helps to boost up the production of the brains feel-good neurotransmitters known as, endorphins. You may have heard of something called a "runners high," well even something as soothing as yoga can provide the same feeling. You don't just have to run!

2. It gets rid of that awful mood poisoning!

It's no secret that regular exercise increase self confidence, but it can also relax you, lowering the symptoms often associated with depression and anxiety. Exercise can also support a healthier sleep cycle that is often disrupted by stressful feelings associated with depression and anxiety.

3. It gets your mediation in motion!

After a long and hard-fought tennis game or just a few quick laps in the pool, you'll often discover that you've completely forgotten the daily stresses of your life, because you've devoted your mind to your body. You can essentially replace your mind's irritations with active/physical movement. If you focus your energy on a single task, you'll discover that the resulting energy can lead you into a state of optimism that will help you to be more calm and clear in the future.

#healing #exercise #health #running #yoga #mindfulness