Exercise as Stress Relief Agent

Exercise as Stress Relief Agent
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Exercise as Stress Relief Agent
Introduction
According to the American Psychological Association, the United States faces a national mental health crisis that could result in long-term social and health consequences (APA, 2020). The current situation results from the coupling effect of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the inherent socioeconomicsocioeconomic problems faced by the American population. Following the loss of jobs, closure of business, and subsequent mitigation measures like lockdowns and social distancing have left more Americans facing stress and anxiety (Salari et al., 2020). Given the current economic crisis, most of those affected, especially those from socioeconomically disadvantaged groups (Varma, Junge, Meaklim, & Jackson, 2021), are even at greater risk considering they cannot afford the management and treatment expenses (Williams, 2018). Therefore, physical exercises are the most convenient stress management and relief alternative because it costs almost zero in terms of money.
Impact of Physical Exercise on Stress
The physical benefits of exercise include improving the body's physical condition, and prevention or fighting of diseases has long been established by physicians who encourage people to stay physically active (Ruegsegger & Booth, 2018). However, in recent years, studies are increasingly linking positive mental health outcomes, including reduction of stress, with physical exercises (Bell, Audrey, Gunnell, Cooper, & Campbell, 2019). The research outcomes suggest that physical exercises may decrease tension, elevate mood, improve sleep and self-esteem. A physical exercise lasting for five minutes results in an anti-anxiety effect. There are several ways in which physical exercise has an impact on stress levels. Firstly, physical exercises are responsible for pumping endorphins (Mandolesi et al., 2018). Endorphins are feel-good neurotransmitters when their concentration is increased. Often referred to as runner’s high, any physical exercise contributes to the same feeling. Physical exercise can also be considered as a form of meditation in motion (Schneider, Malinowski, & Watson, 2018). A fundamental way in which this is effective is that exercises cause one to forget the day's irritations focusing on the body movement. The resulting focus on a single task ends up in optimism and energy, which helps individuals stay clear, calm, and focused. Completing missions during physical exercises provides small victories that act as a stepping stone towards reduced stress levels.
The Cost of Physical Exercises
Alternatives to stress management and relief include therapy and medication (Schneider, Malinowski, & Watson, 2018). Given the current circumstances, the coupling effect of the Covid-19 pandemic, and inherent socioeconomic problems, these alternatives are not viable for most Americans in terms of accessibility and cost...