Stress is all in the mind. We see, taste, hear, think, feel, or remember something and our brain sets off the stress response. After a cascade of chemical actions and reactions, our bodies are left drained and worn out, and muscles all tensed. It’s like a storm brewing inside, ready to burst at any moment.
Hitting the gym to bench 300lbs is not the way to go here. What the body needs when stressed is light exercises that release tensed muscles and relaxes the body. Think of it as a gentle nudge rather than a forceful push. The goal is to find fun activities to reduce stress that soothe the mind and body, not exhaust them.
The key is engaging in total body workouts that you enjoy (e.g., swimming, golf, running, cycling, etc.), that promote circulation, and gets the mind off stress, as well as burn off stress hormones. That way, the body can relax and function like before. Outdoors in the sun make an added benefit. Here are a few exercises that hit the mark:
Walking. It allows you to breathe fresh air, provides a release of tight muscles, and hey, you can actually stop to smell the roses! My tip on walking to burn off stress is walking barefoot on grass. Fresh cut grass forms short hard blades that massage nerve endings under the feet to provide sensational calming of nerves and relaxation for the body. It’s like a natural foot massage that connects you with nature.
Walking on sand at the beach also provides similar effects, plus the breeze from the ocean and the view. You can’t beat that! If you enjoy running, by all means get in a few miles jog in. It will do a lot of good. The rhythmic motion of running can be meditative, helping to clear your mind and release pent-up energy.
Playing with kids. My favorite workout to tame stress. Kids are ever ready to play. They scream and run and make it fun. If their laughter does not take your mind off stress nothing else will! A combo can be arranged: playing with kids barefoot on fresh cut grass. How about that!? The joy and energy of children can be infectious, lifting your spirits and making you forget your worries.
Tai Chi and Yoga. They provide all the right moves to release tension. Don’t worry about your mind still being on the stress, the balancing challenges they offer knocks stress out cold! Another tip: do your Tai Chi and Yoga sessions out in the open, especially by the beach. The combination of gentle movements, deep breathing, and the soothing sounds of nature can work wonders for your mental and physical well-being.
Playing drums. Banging on those giant drums with both hands out in the open makes music, provides a workout, and a feeling of accomplishment! Anything light, fun that encourages circulation, and gets the mind off stress is in. That’s the secret! The rhythmic beating of drums can be therapeutic, allowing you to express your emotions and release tension in a creative way.
Gardening. There’s something incredibly soothing about digging your hands into the earth and watching something grow. Gardening not only gets you outdoors but also provides a sense of accomplishment and connection to nature. Plus, the physical activity of digging, planting, and weeding can be surprisingly relaxing.
Dancing. Whether it’s a slow waltz or a lively salsa, dancing is a fantastic way to release stress. It combines physical activity with music, which can be a powerful mood booster. Plus, you don’t need a partner to enjoy a good dance session—just put on your favorite tunes and let your body move to the rhythm.
Cycling. Hop on a bike and explore your neighborhood or a nearby park. Cycling is a low-impact exercise that gets your heart pumping and your muscles working without putting too much strain on your body. The wind in your hair and the scenery passing by can be incredibly calming.
Swimming. Diving into a pool or the ocean can be a refreshing way to wash away stress. The buoyancy of water takes the pressure off your joints, making it a great exercise for those with injuries or chronic pain. Plus, the rhythmic motion of swimming can be meditative, helping to clear your mind.
List of Benefits from Stress-Relieving Exercises
- Improved Mood: Physical activity boosts the production of endorphins, your body’s natural mood elevators.
- Reduced Tension: Gentle exercises help release muscle tension and promote relaxation.
- Better Sleep: Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and deepen your sleep.
- Enhanced Focus: Exercise increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, improving cognitive function.
- Boosted Immune System: Regular exercise can help strengthen your immune system, making you less susceptible to stress-related illnesses.
- Increased Energy: Physical activity boosts your energy levels, helping you feel more alert and less fatigued.
- Improved Heart Health: Regular exercise helps lower blood pressure and improves overall cardiovascular health.
Fun Activities to Reduce Stress and Their Benefits
| Exercise | Benefits | Duration/Frequency | Additional Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking | Improves mood, reduces tension, enhances focus | 30 minutes, 3-5 times a week | Walk barefoot on grass or sand for added benefit |
| Playing with Kids | Boosts mood, reduces tension, improves social connections | 1-2 hours, 2-3 times a week | Combine with outdoor activities for extra fun |
| Tai Chi/Yoga | Improves flexibility, reduces tension, enhances focus | 30-60 minutes, 3-5 times a week | Practice outdoors for a calming environment |
| Playing Drums | Boosts mood, provides a workout, enhances creativity | 30-60 minutes, 2-3 times a week | Play outdoors for a more immersive experience |
| Gardening | Reduces tension, improves mood, enhances focus | 1-2 hours, 2-3 times a week | Choose plants that you enjoy caring for |
| Dancing | Boosts mood, improves cardiovascular health, enhances creativity | 30-60 minutes, 2-3 times a week | Dance to your favorite music for extra enjoyment |
| Cycling | Improves cardiovascular health, reduces tension, enhances focus | 30-60 minutes, 3-5 times a week | Explore new routes for added excitement |
| Swimming | Improves cardiovascular health, reduces tension, enhances flexibility | 30-60 minutes, 3-5 times a week | Swim in natural bodies of water for a refreshing experience |
Remember, the goal is to find activities that you enjoy and that help you relax. Whether it’s a solo walk in the park or a lively dance session with friends, the key is to engage in movements that bring you joy and help you unwind. So, lace up those shoes, grab a drum, or dive into the pool—whatever puts stress on a leash and lets you tame the beast within.