Morning,
I continuously read about exercise, psychology & science to keep myself updated & current.
I bought the book 'Spark' years ago & found it reinforced what I see & hear every week.
I like the Author & read as much of his work as I can.
He recently wrote in The Harvard Medical School about exercise, music & its effects on easing anxiety.
I wanted to share this scientifically proven research with you....
Chances are good that you, or someone you know, is dealing with anxiety.
One in five people in the UK over 18, & one in three teenagers 13 to 18 reported having an anxiety problem during the past year.
The toll of anxiety can be high: it increases a person’s risk for other conditions like depression, & can contribute to diabetes & heart conditions.
One sobering study shows that people with anxiety tend to be more sedentary & do less intense forms of physical activity,
BUT lacing up your trainers & getting moving to music with others may be the single best non medical solution we have for
preventing & treating anxiety.
John Ratey a psychiatrist who studies the effects exercise on the brain, “I’ve not only seen the science, I’ve witnessed first hand how physical activity affects people”
Research shows aerobic exercise is especially helpful. A simple spin or dance class, or even a brisk walk can be a powerful tool for those suffering from anxiety.
Activities like these also help people who are feeling overly nervous & anxious about an upcoming test, a big presentation, or an important meeting.
EXACTLY HOW DOES EXERCISE EASE ANXIETY?
Engaging in exercise with music diverts you from the very things you are anxious about.
Moving your body decreases muscle tension, lowering the body’s contribution to feeling anxious.
Getting your heart rate up changes brain chemistry, increasing the availability of important anti-anxiety neurochemicals, including serotonin, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), & endocannabinoids.
Exercise activates frontal regions of the brain responsible for executive function, which helps control the amygdala, our reacting system to real or imagined threats to our survival.
Exercising regularly builds up resources that bolster resilience against stormy emotions.
HOW MUCH EXERCISE DO YOU NEED TO DO? To protect against episodes of anxiety & anxiety disorders? While pinpointing this is not easy, a recent meta-analysis in the journal Anxiety & Depression found that people with anxiety disorders who exercised daily reported a significant reduction in anxiety levels. Being able to overcome & do most things without it holding them back. Exercise included mainly moderate to intense aerobic exercise. I know from first hand experience how exercise can help with your mood, mental health & to manage emotions. stress & overwhelm. Interesting? I love to know how something works & why... Click the here for the NEW NOVEMBER CLASS TIMETABLE https://www.tracydixonmindandbodyfit.com/indoor-classes Get fitter, stronger & feel good mentally. Love Tracy x x