It’s simple: stress really isn’t good for you. The chemicals released during stress are bad for almost every part of your health - including the condition of your hair. Working out is a great way of reducing these chemicals to keep calm and healthy. Here are our best activities to do just that.
Swimming
When it comes to relieving stress, there is quite possibly no better exercise than swimming. The controlled breathing that this exercise requires is proven to reduce stress and release feel-good endorphins. Swimming is also a triple-threat exercise which challenges your respiratory capability, your endurance and your strength. Getting the trunks on and hitting the pool is the best way to let go of any stress as well as gain an all-round fitness workout. Ian Thorpe full-body suit optional.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a great way to improve the health of the mind and the body. This martial art form is a tried and tested exercise, having been performed in China for thousands of years. Tai Chi exercises are focused on flowing physical movements and controlled breathing. This helps to strengthen muscles, calm the mind, increase flexibility and even relieve bodily pain. To make sure you are in an open state to facilitate this exercise, we recommend being in an open green space such as a park.
Five-a-side
Joining a five-a-side team is as much about the social and it is the exercise. Interacting with others (mates or otherwise) is a proven way to reduce stress. When you pair this with exercise, you’re on to a winner. Unlike other forms of exercise (e.g. weightlifting) football requires creative thinking which is great for anyone that wants to release stress from the more formulaic approach they apply to a day at work. We recommend nailing down a trademark celebration from the first game.
Gardening
Gardening is not just a hobby for the retired – it’s a great way to de-stress and can also provide a sizeable workout. Depending on what needs doing, looking after your garden for 30-45 minutes can burn between 150 to 300 calories. You also have to learn about plants and get closer to nature which exercises your mind. Being outside is proven to improve your mood and relieve stress. Go for a green finger workout and we’re sure that you’ll notice the difference.
Running
Running is associated with multiple health benefits ranging from increased focus and improved mood to good cardiovascular and muscular health. Considering that many experts believe the human body has evolved for us to be effective endurance runners, this comes as no surprise. Running is also more versatile than people give it credit for: you can change your environment, your objectives and whether you want to run solo or in a group to gain different experiences.
We know that sometimes the thought of hitting the pool or running around a floodlit pitch is the last thing you want to do after a full days work but trust us when we say it’s worth it. Exercise is one of the best ways to relieve stress and trying one of our workouts might just open your mind to a whole new way to feel confident and relaxed.
All of our blog articles are reviewed by our Medical Director before publication.
