Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are hormones that fight stress. We put together a few tips on how you can move your body to relieve your mind.

High-Energy Activities

The benefits of aerobic exercise — like running, dancing, spinning, and in-line roller-skating — include an increased heart rate. When your heart rate is accelerated, your body releases endorphins, natural opiates that make you feel good with no side effects. High-energy activities help you feel better physically and mentally. Just be sure to check with your doctor before starting any high-intensity workouts.

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Yoga

It involves a series of moving and stationary poses, or postures, combined with deep breathing. A mind-body exercise, yoga can strengthen your body’s natural relaxation response and bring you into a healthy balance.

Pilates

This fitness system is designed to strengthen muscles, improve posture and flexibility, and heighten mental awareness. Pilates is known to help relieve both stress and anxiety symptoms. It releases tension in the muscles while using breathing techniques to provide more oxygen to the brain – causing a feeling of calmness and well being.

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Kickboxing

This workout burns calories like crazy and helps maintain a high metabolism. Kickboxing is a blend of martial arts and boxing, and can be practiced for general fitness, self-defense, or sport. It reduces stress by teaching proper breathing techniques, building confidence, and giving you an instant energy boost.

Team Sports

One of the best ways to fit exercise into your schedule is to round up friends and family and organize a game of football, basketball, or soccer — just three of many choices. You get a double dose of stress relief from participating in team sports: Not only are you having fun with loved ones, but you’re also working up a sweat and releasing endorphins. Exercising with friends or co-workers can also motivate you to push yourself a little harder to stay competitive.

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Dancing

Dancing is as fun as it is stress-relieving. Dancing provides an outlet for self-expression and creativity. It helps build confidence, and the ability to express yourself in a safe environment is great for a healthy mindset. Not to mention, dancing has amazing fitness benefits as well. Getting groovy can assist in weight loss, build muscle, improve heart health, and strengthen bones.