Physical Activity Beats Anxiety And Stress

Anxiety and stress have become common household terms. In this fast-paced world, both these terms have mutated to common medical disorders. However, people are more prudent than ever before. Instead of opting for medication, everyone is looking for better, more natural ways to deal with anxiety.

In this article, we aim to give you ten different options to keep your mind and body fit to beat the blues! Here are 5 ways to keep your body fit.

Consistent exercising

Of the many benefits of exercising, it seems to have a remarkable effect in keeping one’s mind calm and composed. Physical activity releases “endorphins” – a substance that gives the “feel-good” factor. An hour of mild to intense workout not only strengthens the body. It also elevates self-esteem and confidence. Doctors say that one can start a workout regime with physical activity for at least 15 minutes per day. It can be gradually increased and variety can be added under the supervision of a trainer. Even an hour of brisk walking can have remarkable effects.

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Deep Breathing Techniques

Spending 30 minutes everyday just to breathe deeply and systematically can be so beneficial in reducing stress levels. Doctors suggest diaphragmatic breathing. This technique is said to increase the flow of oxygen in the body and give a feeling of calmness.

How is it done? Sit in a quiet place and focus on your breathing. Inhale slowly and let the air fill your belly. Exhale through the mouth and repeat several times.

There are several effective breathing exercises in yoga. Better known as Pranayama, these techniques need proper professional guidance. If done consistently, Pranayama has splendid overall benefits for the mind and body.

Being Calm And Creative

Meditation

Meditation is proving to be an effective tool for coping with stress and anxiety. Meditation reduces physical discomfort and puts things into better perspective. Consistent meditation makes the person think with more clarity and make better decisions. They also learn to handle difficult situations in a more pragmatic way.

Being active with hobbies

Hobbies are excellent ways to vent one’s feelings and thoughts in a creative and non-destructive way. Writing, painting, drawing, sketching, poetry-writing, singing, and dancing are great remedial measures that offer more than just the benefit of reducing stress. Hobbies bring out the hidden talent in people and instill a sense of confidence and self-esteem.

Adopt a pet

Pets are great sources of unconditional love and support. A pet provides a sense of purpose in life and looking after one comes with a lifetime of responsibilities. Dogs can sense anxiety in their owners and they have their own way of calming them down. If you think a dog or cat is too much of a responsibility, you can opt for ornamental fish.

Diet And Other Remedies For Stress

Making sensible food choices

Both anxiety and stress can make the person swing between two extremities of food intake: feasting and fasting. Food can be a good comfort factor but sometimes it makes the person overindulgent, leading to unnecessary weight gain. On the other hand, there are some who lose their appetite and starve or underfeed themselves.

Making conscious sensible foods choices will be a major lifestyle change. It can also help to avoid medical treatments for stress and anxiety.

What is the best food for anxiety? We recommend lean meat, fish rich in Omega3 fatty acids, fresh green vegetables, pure dark chocolate, seeds and nuts, citrus fruits, Chamomile tea, fresh yogurt, etc.

Massages and spa treatments

Although they are not long-term remedies for anxiety or stress, a professional body or neck and shoulder massage can provide temporary relief from a stressful situation. Spas are very much in vogue and traditional massage methods are quite popular. Foot reflexology or neck and back reflexology are some of the latest stress relieving techniques provided in spas.

Aromatherapy

Another unconventional practice for de-stressing the mind is Aromatherapy which involves the use of essential oils to soothe and calm the mind. Derived from various parts of the plant, these essential oils are available as air diffusers, soaps, body lotions, candles, incense sticks and beauty products. Each oil is unique and has its own specific remedial properties.

Lavender, lemon, rose, bergamot and Ylang-ylang are some of the most popular essential oils.