Can exercise really lower those feelings of stress?

Anyone who follows me on other social networking media such as Twitter and Facebook will have observed that I regularly declare the health benefits of a Lake District Walking Holiday or long walks in the Peak District.  In fact I believe them to be good for the soul…..

….. and in fact good for the body too.

Actually any exercise is as good for the mind as it is the body.  I can’t tell you how often I’ve come away from a really stressful day at the office, feeling tired and worn out, headed to the gym for my favourite exercise class and left all my stresses behind me.  In fact its one better than that! It gives me a real energy boost for the rest of the evening.  Well at least until about 9.00pm when shattered I fall asleep. That’s good too because the decent nights sleep I get sets me up afresh for the challenges of the next day.

Fresh Air & Exercise – so good for you.

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In fact, I read an article recently that talked about studies into people with depression and that significant improvements in their mental health were seen as a result of combining exercise such as running, with their normal medication.  The article suggested that the effect of exercise on metabolism could increase serotonin, but also that exercise could act as a therapeutic distraction, diverting attention from an individual’s worries and concerns.

For me this is evidence enough of a link between the well-being of body and mind of which I have always been an advocate.  In my life coaching, I include a “walk & talk” session for suitable clients.  It really helps them to think.

As a coach I maintain I will never tell you what you should or shouldn’t do.  That is for you to decide, so I’m not going to tell you all to go out and increase your exercise regimes, however I know for me it helps so if you feel you need a bit of stress release, why not consider exercise as an option.