959: Harnessing Exercise to Tame Anxiety

In today's episode, Gina discusses the importance of exercise in the anxiety recovery journey. Exercise can be a complex topic for anxiety sufferers as it can very often trigger anxiety! The key to overcoming exercise induced anxiety lies in taking small, gradual steps towards greater exercise achievement. Listen in for helpful advice on how to integrate more exercise into your life and improve your anxiety recovery today!Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/Here's what's included for $5/month:❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind❤ And more fun surprises along the way!All this in your favorite podcast app!To learn more go to:https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat is anxiety?Quote:Strength does not come from the physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.-Mahatma GandhiChapters0:00:24 Introduction to harnessing exercise to tame anxiety0:02:25 Understanding the fight or flight response during exercise0:03:15 Gradual transformation: Overcoming exercise-induced anxiety0:04:23 Changing the crossed wires: Rewiring the brain and body0:06:13 Exploring different exercise options to ease anxiety0:07:52 The connection between lactic acid and anxiety0:10:01 The transformative potential of gentle exercise0:13:03 Establishing a Routine for Exercise0:14:14 Using Exercise to Burn off Stress Hormones0:15:26 Reminders for a Balanced Approach to ExerciseSummaryIn this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the intricate relationship between anxiety and exercise. When we exercise, our bodies undergo various physiological responses, such as an increased heart rate and heightened alertness, which can sometimes trigger anxiety. However, it's important to recognize that these sensations are a natural part of our body's fight or flight response and should not be feared.It's not uncommon for some individuals to associate exercise with anxiety due to crossed wires in their brains. However, it's reassuring to know that many people experience these sensations, and they are not alone in their struggles. Overcoming exercise-induced anxiety takes time, and it's okay if our exercise routines need to evolve and adapt.The key to overcoming exercise-induced anxiety lies in taking gradual steps, practicing patience, and showing ourselves self-compassion. We need to understand that exercise is a powerful tool for managing anxiety, and it benefits everyone, regardless of their mental health status. It helps reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins and oxytocin, elevating our mood.The intensity of the exercise doesn't always matter; even gentle activities like walking, yoga, or doing household chores can have immense benefits for our mental well-being. Consistency is crucial, aiming for at least 30 minutes of exercise, three to five times a week. However, it's essential to start slow and not push ourselves too hard. It's okay to acknowledge and understand the anxiety that may arise during exercise and give ourselves permission to take breaks or adjust the pace.Embarking on a routine of walking outdoors in the fresh air can be immensely helpful in reducing anxiety. It's important to find enjoyable activities that transport our minds somewhere else. Remember, this journey is not a quick fix but a continuous process of personal growth. Being kind to ourselves and not pushing too hard are essential components of this transformative journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.