Exercise and anxiety


Oct 6, 2022

 by Gregg Piper
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Did you know that reports of anxiety are up 25% over the past couple of years?

I personally think this number is low since anxiety shows up in different ways for different people … and it’s not always easy to recognize it as anxiety.

A few ways it can show up: feeling restless or agitated, having headaches and/or unexplained pains, trouble focusing, feeling tired, disrupted sleep, worrying, or rolling the same-old, same-old thoughts over and over in your head.

One of the best natural ways to get almost immediate relief from anxiety is to EXERCISE – especially workouts that get your heart rate up!

It works in a few different ways to help you feel better, and studies show it rivals some prescription meds. (Pretty awesome!)

Here are a few ways exercise helps battle anxiety:

  • It can get your mind off of whatever is making you feel anxious
  • The very act of moving stops your muscles from being so tense
  • Getting your heart rate up boosts anti-anxiety brain chemicals
  • Plus, it activates the part of your brain that helps control the amygdala (Your amygdala can trigger feelings of fear & anxiety) 
  • PLUS … exercising regularly can help you become less vulnerable to strong emotions

The more regular you are with your workouts, the better your anxiety-killing results.

For the best results, find activities that get your heart rate up AND that you like doing – and keep doing them. 

And … if you are experiencing a serious anxiety, be sure to tell your doctor. 

Just another reason to move your body and get in that workout!