How to Reduce Stress With Physical Activity

Exercise increases endorphins, the body's feel-good chemicals, according to an article at Natural Therapy Pages. By boosting your mood naturally, endorphins help relieve pent-up stress. And while the best way to release endorphins is with cardiovascular, aerobic activity, this doesn't mean that you necessarily have to exercise at the top of your ability for long periods of time. Natural Therapy Pages suggests a mere 10 minutes of physical activity will help improve your mood. Other physical activities also have the power to relieve stress, even without the benefit of endorphins.

Instructions

• 1

  Get outside. In an article for Prevention Magazine, Sarah Mahoney explains that children with plenty of "Vitamin G," or what experts refer to as time spent in green areas, have lower stress levels. A simple walk outdoors can help reduce stress.

• 2

  Try something new. Liven up your exercise regimen by learning a new sport. Take tennis lessons, or buy inexpensive new exercise equipment, such as kettlebells or core-strengthening exercise balls. Learning a new musical instrument such as the drums also requires physical stamina and exertion.

• 3

  Fix something that's been bugging you. Often, stress isn't caused by a single catastrophic event but by many small events that have piled up. Dive into a home improvement project -- for example, fixing a broken garage door opener, or removing old carpeting. Making a small change for the better will brighten your mood.

• 4

  Organize. In an article for SheKnows, Michele Borboa, M.S., explains that disorganization can often be an unexpected source of stress. Reduce your stress levels by eliminating household clutter.

• 5

  Play with your pet. WebMD explains that animals have a positive impact on their owners' health. Petting your animal lowers blood pressure and releases still more feel-good hormones such as serotonin.

• 6

  Meditate. Don't assume that meditation has to be done from a sitting position. The Mayo Clinic staff explains that yoga and tai chi, both of which involve slow movements and postures, are methods of meditation as well.