From having a crazy, busy schedule, having an important interview, doing something outside your comfort zone or meeting someone for a date – everybody has been in a stressful situation or felt anxious at one point or another. However, there are some environments that breed stress more than others.
The workplace is a natural place that might cause people to feel overwhelmed or stressed due to the expectations of performance and perceived perfection that is demanded from employees. In fact, a poll in 2020 found that 79% of adults in the UK commonly experienced workplace stress, while just 1% said they have never felt stressed in the workplace.
Feeling stressed might seem like a minor thing, but it is a gateway to more serious disorders, such as depression, anxiety, self-harm and even suicide. That’s why it is so important to deal with stress when it arises.
This year, especially with the cost of living continuing to increase, there is certainly a lot to worry about. However, it is crucial to our well-being that we are able to prioritise our mental health in order to make it through the tougher times. While it is important that everybody finds their own way to cope which works for their own individual situations, we believe that exercise is one of the easiest and most effective methods to beat stress.
Exercise and Stress
There is a scientifically proven correlation between exercise and stress relief. Exercise not only triggers the release, but also increases the production of natural chemicals in your brain called endorphins. The release of endorphins causes a euphoric, feel-good feeling which can help to cause an immediate elevation in your mood.
Exercising regularly offers many stress-release-related benefits, including relieving tension, anxiety and anger, improving sleep quality and boosting confidence levels.
Any form of physical activity can benefit your mental well-being and there are so many to choose from. Don’t worry about lifting enormous weights or becoming an ultra-marathoner, even walking or taking the stairs can have the same feel-good effect.
The gym can be a great place to form positive relationships too, which can also contribute to lower stress levels. For starters, everyone at the gym is seeking to better themselves in one way or another. Surrounding yourself growth-minded people creates an environment that promotes healthy habits like talking, routines and discipline; all things which benefit well-being.
Additionally, some people note that the rhythmic movements in the gym can act as a form of meditation.
The same poll also noted that 42% of people are turning to exercise for stress relief which means that 2 out of every 5 gym-goers are there looking to improve their mental well-being. The saying “A problem shared is a problem halved” is so true. Finding someone who can relate to your problems is one of the most cathartic experiences and simply talking about it can lift a huge burden off your shoulders.
So, next time you’re feeling a little stressed or overwhelmed, take a breath and go for a walk, head to the gym or just get moving! We’re confident it will help!
