The good news is you don’t have to. Doing at least one sporting activity a week is enough to clear away some of that pressure. Check out these sporting activities that help to relieve stress.
Grab Your Running Shoes
You don’t need to be a serious runner to get that running high. In fact, if you’re new to running, a quick jog around your neighborhood is all you need to get the blood pumping and clear the stress away. Jogging strengthens your immune system and protects you from the negative effects of stress.
Jogging could potentially improve executive functioning and protect the brain from decline related to aging and stress. It can help you navigate and function in highly stressful circumstances. Additionally, running builds strong bones, strengthens your muscles, and improves your cardiovascular fitness.
Take a Bike Ride
When was the last time you rode a bike? You know what they say: you never forget how to do it. Kids don’t have a monopoly on bike riding. It’s a lot of fun at that age because of all that youthful energy, but you can get that spirit back anytime.
Like jogging, cycling can increase your cardiovascular fitness and decrease stress levels but don’t make the mistake of going from zero to 100. You still need to ease into it gradually. You don’t want to be too sore to try again next week.
Hit the Links
Hands down, golfing is one of the most relaxing sports out there. Think about the scenery of a golf field and the complete silence. Those two characteristics already set the tone for a peaceful and stress-free day.
If you don’t have time to hit the links, you can relieve that stress in your home or backyard. All you need is a golf mat and your clubs. A rubber-base golf mat is best since it provides comfort and stability. Consider playing a white noise machine in the background, like a peaceful stream. This way, you trick your brain into thinking you’re on an actual golf course.
Go for a Swim
Swimming is one of those sporting activities where you use your entire body. You put all your energy into propelling your body forward, and it helps to clear your mind. Swimming release endorphins in your brain, and these hormones increase positivity and bring a sense of well-being and happiness.
A lot of people use swimming as a way to treat stress. Swimming can help promote the growth of new brain cells in parts of the brain that break down during long-term stress. It also increases the blood flow to the brain, which protects it from harmful toxins.
You don’t need to rely solely on meditating and deep breathing to relieve stress. There are plenty of sports activities that will do the job.
