Physical exercise can release tension and reduce anxiety from "summary" of The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook by Edmund J. Bourne
Engaging in physical exercise is a powerful tool for managing anxiety. When you are anxious, your body goes into "fight or flight" mode, preparing you to deal with a perceived threat. This response can lead to muscle tension, increased heart rate, and shallow breathing, all of which contribute to feelings of anxiety. Physical exercise can help to counteract these physiological responses by providing an outlet for the buildup of tension in the body. When you engage in activities such as running, swimming, or yoga, you are able to release this tension through movement, allowing your muscles to relax and your heart rate to return to a more normal level. In addition to releasing tension, physical exercise also stimulates the release of endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. These endorphins can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and improve your overall sense of well-being. Regular exercise can also have longer-term benefits for managing anxiety. By incorporating physical activity into your routine on a consistent basis, you can build resilience to stress and improve your ability to cope with challenging situations. This can help to reduce the frequency and intensity of anxiety symptoms over time.- Taking a dance class, or lifting weights at the gym, the key is to find activities that you look forward to and that make you feel good. By making exercise a regular part of your routine, you can harness its powerful benefits for managing anxiety and improving your overall mental health.
