Health & Fitness

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STRESS RELIEVERS FOR OVER-ACHIEVERS

by ELLA ATKINS

Do you have an over-active brain that never allows you to turn-off? Not everyone can embrace the stillness of yoga and meditation, making it difficult to wind down. Here are seven activities that reduce stress whilst still being active:

These activities allow your brain to focus on what you are doing in the moment, perfect for people who find themselves sitting in a yoga session unable to escape their thoughts.

Running

Running produces endorphins (natural painkillers), improves your ability to sleep and reduces stress levels. Studies have shown that vigorous cardio exercise (like running) also elevates and stabilises your mood whilst improving your self-esteem! The fatigue that running induces allows you to focus on what you are doing and is a wonderful way to distract from overthinking.

Martial arts

Practising martial arts provides an outlet for pent-up emotions, whilst reducing muscular tension and activating adrenaline release, which allows you to learn how to adapt better to high-stress situations. It also helps release endorphins, providing similar benefits to running.

Playing an instrument

Learning how to play an instrument promotes cognitive function and allows you to develop better communication skills, improve emotional release and reduce anxiety. It also stimulates the mind and requires concentration, allowing you to channel all your attention into the task.

Mountain-biking

Combining physical exercise, co-ordination and adrenaline release makes for a fantastic way to be present as focus is paramount - especially to avoid injury – so cycling/ mountain biking is ideal. Plus you also get the chance to socialise and spend time outdoors, both of which reduce the likelihood of depression and anxiety.

Cleaning

Though it’s a chore for many, cleaning is proven to reduce stress and anxiety and lessen the chance of depression. Having a clean environment can also provide people with mental clarity which can help boost the quality of your sleep.

Learn a language

Learning a language has been shown to provide you with an open, more positive mindset and hence reduce stress. The concentration skills and mental stimulation associated with learning a language can also provide similar benefits to playing an instrument.

Cooking or baking

Creating something in the kitchen allows you to fully immerse yourself in behavioural activation. By focussing on a series of small tasks (that you can indulge in!) cooking or baking helps boost serotonin levels and reduces stress as a consequence.

How to sneak more exercise into your daily life

As we get older, it is more important than ever to keep active to maintain our physical and mental health. People who have not taken part in any regular exercise for some time, or those with health issues, should seek medical advice before starting any new exercise or physical activity. Here are five simple ideas to get moving more… 1. Rise and shine Before you pop the kettle on, do some gentle stretches and get those muscles moving. 2. Take the scenic route Walk instead of driving; take the stairs instead of the lift, get off the bus a stop earlier than usual. 3. Take advantage of stationary time Whenever

you’re in a queue or waiting for public transport, use it as an opportunity to move your body. 4. Walk the dog Don’t have a dog? Ask a friend or family member to be your walking buddy. 5. Work out around the house Doing housework can be

a great way to burn more calories. Pop on your favourite music and dance through your house as you clean. Home Instead runs regular Love to Move sessions which are specially designed to get older people moving and functioning better. To find out more call 020-3828 6473.