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Understanding The Association Between Stress And Exercise

It has been known for a long time that exercise is of assistance in relieving stress but what is possibly not quite so well known are the scientific reasons for the benefits which we derive from exercise.

Exercise triggers the release of several chemicals within the brain. An excellent example is the 'endorphin high' which many runners get as the brain produces opiate-like chemicals which act as natural pain relievers and which has been well documented.

The human brain also produces a number of neuro-transmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine which have been found to be beneficial as mood elevators. Once again, the effect of low levels of these nero-transmitters in causing anxiety, depression and occasionally even hostility has been well documented.

As well as exciting the brain into releasing chemicals that are helpful in lowering stress, exercise also lowers the production of some chemicals that are a by-product of stress. For instance, if an individual is under stress the body's sympathetic nervous system produces chemicals such as cortisol and a number of hormones which, if allowed to accumulate in the blood stream, may harm the blood vessels and lead to scaring and even narrowing of the arteries.

Following an exercise program can help to solve this problem in two ways. First, a good workout will make use of these compounds and breaks them down into harmless products that can be passed out of the body in the urine. Second, exercise helps to strengthen the blood vessels and gives them greater elasticity so that they can better withstand attack. One of the more common effects of stress is tense muscles, especially in the shoulders, neck and calves and exercise can assist in loosen these.

As well as these various chemical effects there are also various psychological benefits which can be derived from following a regular exercise routine. Concentrating your attention on an exercise routine takes your mind away from the whole array of things which could be producing stress in your life and it is very hard to focus your attention on those things that are distressing you and to focus on your exercise plan at the same time.

In addition this effect assists by giving your mind the chance to create what is called homeostasis. Put simply this is a feedback mechanism within the body which acts to return your body to a state of equilibrium and strenuous exercise which diverts your mind from your worries also gives this system time to kick in.

Of course there are several other psychological benefits which follow on from a regular workout such as the self-confidence that can be gained from simply improving your overall health and fitness. This is a case of 'if you look good then you often feel good'.

As well, it is helpful to appreciate that you are using effort to improve your body and mind and that you are doing something that is positive rather than simply giving in to the feelings of helplessness and the resultant passivity that often go with stress. It is all too easy to find that the things in your life which are putting you under stress have become the central focus of your attention and just relegating them to the back of your mind can often produce dramatic results.