Walking and stress

Sometimes when I am in pressure, I take a walk a while. If I am not supposed to leave the door, I will make it in circle, like Donald Duck's uncle. Why walking is powerful?

Stress is the body's physical, mental, and chemical reaction to circumstances that frighten, excite, confuse, endanger, or irritate us. We can't go through life without encountering stress.

The symptoms of stress include anxiety, irritability, general tension, and sleeplessness. When we are stressed out, the muscles around our mouth and temples tighten. Our neck muscles tighten, too.

Aerobic exercise of any kind has the power to calm our nerves and reduce stress. Walking is no exception.

Why is walking such a powerful stress reducer?

Walking can trigger the release of endorphins, potent brain chemicals that relieve pain and stimulate relaxation. The higher your level of endorphins, the greater your sense of calm and well-being.

Rhythm is another reason walking reduces stress. Swinging arms in opposition to legs starts a rhythm. It also exercises the right-left brain connection.

You don't need to push yourself to walk really hard to reduce stress. One study shows that a comfortable stroll can be just as effective as a brisk walk. The key is to use your mind while you're moving your body.

If you go to a wooded area or a green, open area--away from noise--you can feel your stress levels decrease almost immediately.

Original story.