Understanding The Connection Between Exercise and Stress

By: Donald Saunders
Submitted: 2007-11-25 13:44:45
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It is very well known that exercise is helpful in relieving stress but what is possibly far less well known are the scientific reasons for the benefits derived from exercise.

Exercise stimulates the release of a number of chemicals within the brain. A very good example of this is the 'endorphin high' that many runners experience as the brain produces opiate-like chemicals which the body uses as natural pain killers and which is very well documented.

The human brain also produces a number of neuro-transmitters like norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine all of which have been shown to be beneficial as mood elevators. Once again, the effect of low levels of these nero-transmitters in leading to depression, anxiety and occasionally even hostility is very well documented.

In addition to exciting the brain into producing chemicals which are helpful in reducing stress, exercise also reduces the release of a variety of chemicals which are a by-product of stress. For example, when an individual is placed under stress the sympathetic nervous system releases chemicals like cortisol and a number of hormones that, if allowed to accumulate in the blood stream, can damage the blood vessels and result in scaring and even a narrowing of the arteries.

Following an exercise program can help to solve this problem in two ways. First, exercise actually makes use of those compounds and breaks them down into harmless products which can be passed out of the body in the urine. Second, a good workout helps to strengthen the blood vessels and gives them increased elasticity so that they are able to better withstand attack.   One of the more commonly seen effects of stress is tense muscles, especially in the neck, shoulders and calves and a good workput will help to loosen these up.

In addition to this variety of chemical effects there are also a number of psychological benefits to be derived from following a regular exercise program. Concentrating your attention on an exercise program takes your mind away from the whole array of things that may be producing stress in your life and it is surprisingly hard to focus on the things which are distressing you and to focus on your exercise routine at the same time.

This effect also helps to give your mind a chance to bring about what is known as homeostasis. Put simply this is a feedback mechanism within the body that works to bring your body back into a state of equilibrium and strenuous exercise that diverts your mind from your problems also gives this system time to function.

Of course there are a variety of other psychological benefits that result from a regular workout like the self-confidence which can be gained from simply improving your general health and fitness. This is a case of 'when you look good then you often feel good'.

Additionally, it is helpful to recognize that you are using effort to improve your mind and body and that you are doing something that is positive instead of merely giving in to the sense of helplessness and the passivity which generally go with stress. It is very easy to find that the things that are causing you stress have become the main focus of your attention and just putting them to the back of your mind will often produce dramatic results.

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