Not only do we recommend adding exercise into your weekly schedule for weight loss purposes, but exercise can also help reduce your stress. Stress can be a serious problem regardless of your age or your lifestyle. And, if you are stressed, you can inadvertently indulge in emotional eating, which does nothing for your weight loss goals, to say the least. So, you can see how crucial exercise is to combating stress and aiding your weight loss program. Regardless of how much time you have on a given day, there are exercises that you can squeeze into your daily routine to help you manage your stress.
How can exercise help stress levels?
As you exercise, the physical activity increases the production of endorphins - the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters. These endorphins can help improve your mood and act as a relaxant. Exercise can directly reduce the symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety as well as increase your self-confidence. Exercise can also help take your mind off your problems and even improve your sleep patterns.
Please contact us if you have questions or want to learn more about our weight loss programs or Botox and Fillers:
- To reach our AZ Clinics, call 602-374-7226 (2 Clinics in Mesa and Phoenix)
- To reach our NM Clinics, call 505-888-9575 (3 Clinics in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe) or 575-222-4994 (Las Cruces)
- To reach our TX Clinic, call 214-296-0269 (Dallas)
- Or visit us online to schedule an appointment: http://fitmedicalweightloss.com/
Stress Relieving Exercise
What you choose to do for exercise as a stress reliever is entirely up to you. Any type of movement such as walking or running can help ease your stress levels. Yoga or tai chi are great for stress or even activities such as gardening or dancing. Aim to do something you enjoy to keep the stressors down. The most important thing about coming up with an exercise plan is to aim to stick to it. Create attainable goals that won’t see you canceling your exercise commitments every time something comes up. Mix up your routine to maintain your interest and if necessary, exercise with a friend to act as an incentive.
Stretches to Help Combat Stress
Stress can affect your posture just as much as poor posture can affect your stress levels. You may find that the muscles in your neck, shoulders and head area are particularly tight which can be a direct result of stress. Here are a few simple stretching exercises you can try at home to help relax your body.
Ear to shoulder stretch
Tilt your head to the right side bringing your ear as far down to your shoulder as possible. Take your right hand and apply slight pressure to increase the stretch you feel on the left side of your neck. Repeat on the other side.
Neck stretch
Stand or sit up straight. Drop your chin to your chest and increase the pressure by placing your hands on the back of your head. Push down gently to improve the stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat three times.
Lower back stretch
Bend from your hips and reach down towards the floor aiming to touch your toes. If you cannot reach your feet, rest your hands on your ankles or shins. Repeat. If you do this on a regular basis, you will definitely notice improvement over time.
Stress management is a real thing and using exercise to help you cope with stress is not only healthy but can promise real results. It is excellent for mental fitness and will benefit your health both mentally and physically in the long-term. Isn’t it time you started moving more?
Please contact us if you have questions or want to learn more about our weight loss programs or Botox and Fillers: