Scientists have maintained that CBT is the first line of defense in managing anxiety. But they also believe that exercise is just as important. It's like your body has to process all that brain work.
Research show that physical activity increases your heart rate, driving more oxygen to your brain. This increased O2 level positively impacts your well-being and cognitive abilities, improving your focus and brain plasticity — the neural connections enabling new skill development. Regular exercise also helps ease depression and anxiety by releasing feel-good endorphins. Endorphins are natural brain chemicals that can improve your sense of well-being and taking your mind off worries. Anxiety can really hurt: it increases your risk for other psychiatric disorders like depression, and can contribute to diabetes and cardiovascular problems. One study shows that people with anxiety tend to be more sedentary and do less intense forms of physical activity, if any. But putting on your shoes and getting out and moving may be the single best nonmedical solution we have for preventing and treating anxiety. It's the first line of defense In the Moment and a useful part of Daily Practice that we talk about in Strategies. Most of the things you do for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to manage your anxiety requires writing and thinking. This essential part requires moving your body. It's a disruptor. It changes your perspective. Read more about managing your anxiety from start to finish here. |
Just look at this research:
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