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Sweat Out the Tension: The Power of Physical Activity in Reducing Stress
Stress and anxiety seem to be common aspect of modern life, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. From work and family responsibilities to financial worries and social media overload, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, many people might be surprised to learn that one of the best ways to combat stress is through physical activity.
The science behind the stress-relieving effects of exercise is well established. Here’s how exercise can help you relax and why it’s an effective strategy for managing stress.
1. Exercise Reduces Stress Hormones
One of the ways that exercise helps to reduce stress is by reducing the levels of stress hormones in the body. When you’re under stress, your body releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones are designed to help you respond to a perceived threat by increasing your heart rate and blood pressure.
However, if you’re under chronic stress, your body produces too much cortisol, which can have negative effects on your health. Exercise has been shown to lower cortisol levels and decrease the negative impact of stress on the body.
