Stress is a part of life that we cannot avoid. The results of chronic stress can be devastating to one's physical and mental health. As a psychiatrist, I often see individuals going through loss, divorce, financial difficulties, etc. and this over time can lead to anxiety and mood disorders. Psychiatrists often recommend therapy and medication but one aspect of a person's life that can make a huge impact is their exercise routines. Mentally, exercise provides an outlet for negative emotions such as frustration, anger, and irritability, thereby promoting a more positive mood and outlook. Exercise improves mood by producing positive biochemical changes in the body and brain. Regular exercise reduces the amount of adrenal hormones your body releases in response to stress. Also, with exercise, your body releases greater amounts of endorphins, the powerful, pain-relieving, mood-elevating chemicals in the brain. Depressed people often lack these neurochemicals. Endorphins are natural pain killers and also help lift your mood. The runner's high is a result of the increased endorphins in the body. Exercise, therefore, will keep your body functioning properly and will keep you feeling both relaxed, refreshed and promote deep, restful sleep.
I personally have found that at this stage of my life with work and family stressors running helps me to not only keep physically fit but also emotionally healthy. I find taking more than 1-2 days off from exercise increases my frustration level and I am more irritable. After exercise, especially running, I feel I can deal with almost anything and that positive energy is addictive.
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