Exercise is one of the most important things you can do to combat stress.

It might seem contradictory, but putting physical stress on your body through exercise can help relieve mental stress.

And the benefits are strongest when you exercise regularly. People who exercise regularly are less likely to experience anxiety than those who don’t exercise (1).

There are a few reasons behind this:

• Stress hormones: Exercise lowers your body’s stress hormones in the long run, such as cortisol. It also helps release endorphins, which are chemicals that improve your mood and act as natural painkillers.
• Sleep: Exercise can also improve your sleep quality, which can be negatively affected by stress and anxiety.
• Confidence: When you exercise regularly, you may feel more competent and confident in your body, which in turn promotes mental well-being.

Try to find an activity you enjoy, such as walking, dancing, rock climbing or yoga.

Activities that use repetitive movements of large muscle groups, such as walking or jogging, can be particularly stress relieving.

BOTTOM LINE:Regular exercise can help lower stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins and improving your sleep and self-image.