De-stress through exercise

Feeling out of sorts? Here’s why you should de-stress through exercise.

We know exercise is essential for the body, but what about working out for the mind? Exercise is commonly prescribed for those suffering with depression, and has also been reported to work wonders when we feel stressed, anxious or worried. If true, exercise could be the cheapest, healthiest and fastest ticket to a calmer mind. But how does it work? We spoke to Akash Vaghela, senior personal trainer at UP Fitness City studio in London, to discover more about the miracle stress-buster.

Working out is provides an endorphin boost

Ever an example of how cool science is, exercise literally releases a chemical that makes you feel happier. ‘Endorphins are natural hormones released by the body that are often described as a high, and can provide the body with a sense of happiness and well-being,’ says Akash. ‘These endorphins have been regularly reported to help with feelings of depression, too.’

Exercise keeps you present

Akash also maintains that exercise offers a much-needed distraction where other remedies can’t. ‘When you’re training hard and completely focused on the task at hand, your outside stresses and worries will be temporarily forgotten,’ he explains. ‘Intense exercise can be the perfect distraction in a busy schedule, and provides people with a short period of time where nothing else matters.’

It can relieve frustration

‘A build up of stress over time can result in frustration,’ says Akash. ‘With no outlet, this can become pent up within the body and cause symptoms such as anxiety and depression.’ The solution? ‘By engaging in exercise, you provide your body with an outlet to relieve stress.’ A long run with headphones blaring, an intense boxing class or a sweaty spin sesh are just a few forms of exercise that will help you release pent-up tension.

Exercise will help you sleep better

Struggling to catch those zzzs? There may be a better way to drift off than counting sheep. ‘If you don’t sleep well, your energy will suffer, causing you to be irritable, moody and anxious,’ explains Akash. ‘As this cycle continues, stress levels will continue to rise. By exercising, you’ll be able to relax at night and sleep more soundly, allowing you to feel more in control of the day and, in turn, on top of your stress levels.’

It boosts self confidence

For a lot of us, the root of our worries and stress lie in insecurities about ourselves. Whether it’s the actual process of losing weight and toning up, or the simple satisfaction of completely a workout you weren’t sure you could, exercise is a great way to build self-confidence and strengthen your relationship with yourself. ‘Regular exercise will help you to build muscle and lose body fat. You’ll look better, feel better and, as a result, increase your self-confidence,’ agrees Akash. ‘This will help improve your outlook on life and will help you to be able to manage stress more effectively.’