Physical Activity for Anxiety

Exercise for Stress Management

Exercise can serve as an excellent stress management tool which can help with the anxiety and nervousness . A regular exercise or movement routine can be very helpful in improving stress management.

The best strategy when using exercise to decrease stress is to have a regular (3-5 times a week) exercise routine. This can be walking daily, attending fitness classes, gardening, biking or many other physical pursuits. The exercise or movement can be a quiet walk alone in nature or a wild dance aerobics class. The key is doing it regularly.

If you struggle with excessive nervousness, fidgeting and restlessness you may need to exercise more rigorously five times a week for 45 minutes or more to feel relief.

Yoga and Tai Chi

Some great exercises that may help you to feel relaxed and calm include Tai Chi and Yoga. Specifically, we recommend Yin Yoga, Gentle Yoga and Restorative Yoga.

Try the links below for free online classes designed specifically to promote positive relaxation:

Settling Into Relaxation

Daytime Restorative Flow Yoga

Try this beginner tai chi video to learn the basics of the practice:

Tai Chi for Beginners

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