Skip to main content

Walking to Relieve Stress

 Research has shown that walking promotes the release of brain chemicals called endorphins that stimulate relaxation and improve our mood. Walking does not have to be done at a fast pace to have stress-relieving benefits. Even a stroll at a comfortable pace promotes relaxation, studies indicate

Other ways walking can relieve stress:

1. Take a Break: Put physical and mental distance between you and the stress-causing environment. Get up and take a 20-minute walking break.

2. Loosen Up: Many people carry stress by tensing their muscles. By getting into your correct walking posture and form, you un-knot those muscles and put them to work. For further relaxation of your shoulder and neck, try doing some shoulder rolls forward and back while you're walking, and then let your arms swing freely.

3. Get Out of Your Head: Take a break from your internal worries. Observe the environment around you; enjoy the trees, flowers, birds, gardens, sky, or window shop strolling past storefronts or in the mall.

4. Reconnect With Your Physical Body: Think about from head to toe how your body is working to carry you along. You may want to practice breathing techniques. For example, you can match your steps to your breath (inhale for 4 steps, exhale for 4 steps, or whatever pattern works best for you). 

Labels:

Popular posts from this blog

What is the difference between 1 Bipolar Disorder and 2 Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, you can manage your mood swings and other symptoms by following a treatment plan. In most cases, bipolar disorder is treated with medications and psychological counseling (psychotherapy). Bipolar I Disorder and Bipolar II Disorder are two of the three major forms of Bipolar Disorder. If you or someone you know is dealing with bipolar disorder, educating yourself about the condition is important. Understanding the differences between Bipolar Disorder 1 and Bipolar Disorder 2 can help you plan for how to manage future mood episodes and get the best treatment for your mental health. Bipolar 1 Disorder  Bipolar 1 Disorder is characterized by extreme, intense mood episodes. Those with bipolar I experience intense mania, which lasts at least seven days. T...
Post a Comment
Read more

How to Dealing with Summer Depression

Summertime is supposed to be fun and relaxing. If you’ve got summer depression, it isn’t. Some people experience symptoms of depression in spring or summer. The symptoms can be mild and then progress and become more severe. Those experiencing summertime depression may feel agitated and restless, with causes ranging from changes in schedule to increased sunlight to the season’s heat and humidity. Read on to learn more about what seasonal depression in the summer looks like, as well as its potential causes. Typical Symptoms of Summer Depression include: Sad and low mood Feeling anxious Feeling agitated Reduced appetite and Weight loss Difficulty sleeping and insomnia Understanding Summer Depression Why do some people feel more depressed in summer? Here are three reasons. 1. Body image issues.  As the temperature climbs and the layers of clothing fall away, a lot of people feel self-conscious about their bodies, says Cook. Feeling embarrassed in shorts or a bathing suit can make life ...
Post a Comment
Read more

What is Manic Depression Disorder?

Manic Depression Disorder episodes are the main sign of the condition, and most people with bipolar disorder also have depressive episodes. The condition is manageable with medications, talk therapy, lifestyle changes, and other treatments. Manic Depression Disorder is a term for what is now referred to as Bipolar Disorder. Bipolar Disorder is a chronic mood disorder that causes intense shifts in mood, energy levels, and behavior.  Manic Depression Disorder. (Bipolar 1 Disorder) Manic Depression Disorder, is a mental disorder characterized by wide mood swings from high (manic) to low (depressed). Periods of high mood swings are called manic episodes. The person becomes very active, but in a scattered and unproductive way, sometimes with painful or embarrassing consequences. Examples are spending more money than is wise or getting involved in sexual adventures that are regretted later. Most people who have manic episodes also experience periods of depression. There is some evidence ...
Post a Comment
Read more