How Activity Helps With Stress
Caregiver Alpharetta GA – Feeling Stressed as a Caregiver? Feel Better By Getting Active
The American Psychological Association reports that more than 75 percent of American adults experience stress. Half of those people admit that stress keeps them from getting enough sleep. Around 60 percent say they need more emotional support.
Does that sound familiar? Do you feel stressed and don’t know what to do? It’s important to start managing the stress. One way to do that is by increasing your activity.
There are two benefits to exercise and activity. First, it tires the body out. The more active you are, the more your body will be ready to get some sleep. Second, fresh air and sunshine help reduce stress. You can workout inside, but multiple studies have found that the sounds and smells found in nature help improve your mood and reduce the stress you feel.
Take time every day to go for a walk. When possible, aim for local trails that wind through the woods or along a lake, stream, or other body of water. Stop and do something you enjoy, such as take photos of the birds you see flitting from tree to tree.
If you can’t get outside, try forms of exercise that focus on breathing and meditation. Those will help ease stress, clear your mind, and help you feel refreshed and invigorated. Tai chi and yoga are two of the more popular options.
Some people find that dancing or exercise programs like Zumba help burn off the angst that’s linked to increased stress. The rhythm of the music helps ease tension and improves your mood.
That’s exercise taken care of. Make it easier for your mind and body to go to sleep each night. Don’t drink caffeinated beverages after dinner. Switch to water and limit that to avoid middle-of-the-night bathroom trips.
Instead of TV, grab a book and read until you’re tired. Turn on white noise, such as ocean sounds or a fan, and close your eyes. Focus on deep breaths, holding the breath in for a count of five, and slowly breathing it out. Many people find that is enough to keep their minds from thinking of the things that would otherwise keep them awake and feeling stressed.