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Published Jul 23, 2024

Why hitting the gym beats hitting the panic button.

By Ralph Broussard, PhD, LCADC

Digital Writer

Ever felt like your anxiety’s got more control over you than your Netflix account has over your free time? Well, let’s talk about flipping that script. Here’s the straight deal on how tossing in a bit of exercise can seriously dial down your stress meters.

1. Quick Distraction: Zoom out of those anxious thoughts and dive into a workout. Boom – instant relief. It’s like your brain’s own 'pause' button.

2. Chill Out Those Muscles: As you work 'em, the tension slips away. Less tension, less jitters. Simple, right?

3. Brain Brew: Get this—moving your muscles boosts happy brain chemicals! We’re talking serotonin (your inner zen master) and endocannabinoids (the feel-great fan club). It’s like a natural chill pill.

4. Boss Brain: Exercise gives a workout to your brain’s command center, helping it muzzle that pesky fear factory, the amygdala. Consider it your neurological leash.

5. Stress Hormones? Nope: Sweat out the stress. Lower cortisol and adrenaline mean you get to feel more like a monk and less like a hedgehog on espresso.

6. Sleep Like a Baby: Regular workouts set you up for some quality Zs. Better sleep = less anxiety. Win-win!

7. Confidence Kick: Every workout session is a notch in your confidence belt. Feel more in charge, and watch those worries shrink.

8. Group Power: Join a class or drag a friend along. It’s fun, and the shared smiles multiply the benefits.

9. Here and Now: Exercise ropes you into the present moment. It’s mindfulness in motion. Say goodbye to overthinking!

Takeaway: Whether it’s a brisk walk, a dance-off in your living room, or pumping iron like there’s no tomorrow, getting moving is like a secret weapon for your mental health.

Action Steps:

Start small, keep it fun, and stay consistent. Remember, the best workout for you is the one you actually enjoy and stick with!

Here's to crushing those anxiety gremlins,

Ralph "sweat the small stuff (but only in the gym)" Broussard