Are you feeling stressed this holiday season? It could be the lack of time you have with so many things on your shopping list, or the hassles of traveling and taking time off work. Or maybe it’s the pressure of getting family together that causes you stress. Regardless, we’ve all had holiday-related stressors that can take a toll on our wellbeing.
To reduce stress, Zach Egger, DO, Phelps Medical Group, suggests making yourself a priority by exercising. “Exercise is a great stress reliever and provides many benefits to your health,” he said.
Whether it’s practicing yoga, busting out dances moves, or simply squeezing in a 20 minute walk every day, any kind of physical activity can improve our mental and physical wellbeing and makes a big difference in our daily lives.
Immediate benefits of physical activity include:
- Better Sleep
- Less Anxiety
- Reduced Blood Pressure
Long term benefits of physical activity include:
- Reduces risk of depression and developing dementia
- Lowers risk of heart disease
- Helps prevent cancer
- Reduces risk of weight gain
- Improves bone health
- Reduces risks of falls
New research suggests physical activity may also help boost immune function.
Active people generally live longer and are at less risk for serious health problems like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and some cancers. As Dr. Egger suggests, “Take time for yourself” this holiday season and do what you can to stay active.
