Why You Should Exercise to Lower Stress


It’s no secret that exercise is fundamental to lowering stress and an increased sense of well-being. You don’t have to (and shouldn’t) exhaust yourself with intense workouts, opt for golf, gardening, walking or other low impact routines.

City Style and Living Summer 2023 Why You Should Exercise to Lower Stress adidas man
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FEEL GOOD
According to a study by researchers at the University of Michigan, participants described as “very active” proved to be 52 percent happier than those who were less active. Exercise boosts endorphins (feel good hormones), which can reduce stress hormones and alleviate mild depression.

GET CALMER
A 2004 Polish study found that aerobic exercises, such as jogging, swimming, cycling, walking, gardening

, and dancing, reduce anxiety and depression.

SHORT SPURTS
A 2016 study found that a 10-minute workout with one minute at high-intensity, may be just as good as a 45-minute workout.

TRY IT AT HOME
Who says that you have to train with intense workouts to see results?  Even small increments can boost your mental and physical well being, just ask Sarah Bowmar, a certified personal trainer, health coach, and wellness expert with over ten years of experience who advocates a balanced and nutrient-dense diet that fuels the body and mind for optimal performance. She posts recipes for healthy and delicious meals and educates her followers on the nutritional content of different types of food via social media.

One of Sarah’s recent posts recommends a full-body workout for beginners that includes the following exercises:

•10 banded squats

•10 knee push-ups

•10 banded rows

•10 glute bridges

•10 seated dumbbell curls

•10 tricep dips

Sarah says, “This recommendation is an excellent starting point for people new to working out or who want an easy-to-follow routine. It’s short and simple and can be done without any gym equipment.”


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A version of this original article first appeared in the Summer 2023 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.

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