Simple Stress Relief Exercises You Can Do Anywhere
Beyond the psychological aspects of stress, that need to be addressed by a professional counselor or therapist, exercise as a stress management technique is definitive and well proven. Why does exercise decrease stress? Quite simply by unwinding your muscles, by stretching and contracting them, and improving the blood circulation and oxygenation.There are several benefits of exercise in reducing stress, some of them are cited below.
- A physically fit body, or a toned up body, creates a sense of well being and increases self esteem thus reducing the effects of external stress
- Physical activity of any form, which does not involve the use of brain, helps relax the strain of continuous thinking while creating a sense of accomplishment
- The endorphins released by the body during rigorous activity acts as “good feeling” chemicals and lift up moods even during severe depression
- Pent up stress energy in released during exercise leaving you feeling light and relaxed
- Enjoyable activities like cycling, sports and hiking can take your mind off from your work and help you feel more in touch with yourself
- The discipline and sense of achievement involved in following in a routine of exercise improves your self esteem
Simple exercises that can be done anywhere
You don’t have to wait for the workday to be over to get started with your stress relief exercises, there are several simple and easy techniques that can be performed while at work. A few such exercises are mentioned below.Squeezing a stress ball – Just get yourself a squeeze ball (there are some really funny ones available) and get squeezing every time you feel your stress levels increasing. This action of squeezing has a direct effect on your muscles and helps unwind them, this technique is especially helpful when you are feeling frustrated.
Progressive muscle relaxation techniques – Also known as PMR, this technique is highly beneficial for stress relief. It is quite easy to follow in actuality but requires a certain amount of willingness on your part. All you need to do is take up each section of your body – legs, hands, abdomen, hips, neck and shoulders – and consciously relax them by tightening them firmly and then just letting go. You will get better at this with practice though it can be a little frustrating for beginners. PMR is so relaxing that most people use it just before going to bed as it allows them restful sleep, but it is just as useful in the midst of a busy workplace.
Deep breathing – There is a connection between your life energy and your breathing patterns. Most of us are used to breathing in a shallow fashion inducing a state of restlessness and fatigue. Once every hour, take 5 minutes out to practice deep breathing. This is very refreshing for the body and enriches oxygen supply to the brain. Become very conscious of your breath while you inhale and exhale deeply. This exercise helps bring your attention out of your mind into the present moment. Many people perform deep breathing just before they go in for a client meeting or a presentation as it helps them stay focused and relaxed.
You can stay stress free through out the day by practicing relaxation techniques, and exercises, daily. It requires a little patience and discipline on your part initially, but once it is on auto mode it will become like your second nature. You will realize for yourself the greater benefits of exercise in reducing stress as compared to psychological approaches which have their place but are not always a necessity.
Also Read: Top 10 Exercises to Reduces Stress
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