It is very well known that exercise is helpful in relieving stress but what is almost certainly not quite so well known are the scientific reasons for the benefits derived from exercise. Exercise triggers the release of various chemicals by the brain. A particularly good example of this is the 'endorphin high' which a lot of runners experience as the brain produces opiate-like chemicals which act as natural pain relievers and which has been very well documented. The human brain also produces several neuro-transmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin which have been shown to be beneficial as mood elevators. Once again, the effect of low levels of these in leading to depression, anxiety and occasionally even aggression has been very well documented. As well as triggering the brain into producing chemicals that are helpful in reducing stress, exercise also lowers the release of various chemicals that are by-products of stress. For instance, when an individual finds himself under stress the sympathetic nervous system releases chemicals such as cortisol and a variety of hormones which, if left in the blood, can harm the blood vessels and lead to scaring and even a narrowing of the arteries. Following an exercise program can assist in solving this problem in two different ways. First, exercise actually makes use of these compounds and breaks them down into harmless products that can be passed out of the body in the urine. Second, exercise helps to strengthen the blood vessels and gives them greater elasticity so that they can better resist attack. One of the more commonly seen consequences of stress is tense muscles, especially in the neck, shoulders and calves and a workput can assist in loosen these up. As well as this variety of chemical effects there are also several psychological benefits which can be derived from having a regular workout routine. Concentrating your attention on a workout routine takes your mind away from the whole array of things which may be causing the stress in your life and it is extremely hard to concentrate your attention on those things that are upsetting you and to concentrate on your exercise routine at one and the same time. In addition this effect assists by giving your mind a chance to create what is called homeostasis. Put simply homeostasis is a feedback mechanism within the body which acts to return your body to a state of equilibrium and a strenuous workout which diverts your mind from your problems will also give this system the time to kick in. Of course there are various other psychological benefits which result from a regular workout such as the self-confidence that can be gained from merely improving your general health and fitness. Here it is a case of 'when you look good then you often feel good'. Additionally, it helps you to recognize that you are applying effort in order to improve your mind and body and that you are doing something positive rather than simply giving in to the sense of helplessness and the resultant passivity that often go along with stress. It is all too easy to find that the things in your life which are placing you under stress have become the main focus of your attention and merely relegating them to the back of your mind can frequently lead to dramatic results.
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