by Cheryl O'Brien

Created on: October 15, 2008   Last Updated: October 30, 2008

Stress can be described as the emotional, mental or physical response to stimuli that interferes with the normal equilibrium of a person's mind and body. Stress may present in different people in differing ways, yet there are universal effects of stress on humans. These effects include the signs and symptoms of a raise in blood pressure, depression, muscular tension, anxiety, irritability and increased heart rate,

The Victorian Health Department. vic.gov.au/resources/pdf/Menta l_Health_Foundation_Document.pdf states:
"There is acknowledgement in Australia and internationally that mental health is fundamental to physical health and quality of life. As early as 1947, the World Health Organization (WHO) defined health as 'a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing' (WHO 1947). More recently, the Department of Health in the United Kingdom emphasised the importance of
emotional wellbeing for health when it defined health as being confident, and able to cope with the ups and downs of life' (Stewart-Brown 1998)."

Exercise causes the brain to release the hormone endorphins and serotoin into the blood stream to create a natural high . Serotonin and endorphins are natural feel-good drugs which relieve the symptoms of depression, irritability and anxiety. A low blood level of endorphins can make you more susceptible to cravings for fatty foods. These cravings are actually a craving for endorphins and the natural high that they give. Fat releases endorphins into the blood you will get the same result whether you release the fat from your body through exercise or if you consume fatty foods. If you find yourself craving fattening foods try taking a long work or going for a bike ride or a swim.

Exercise increases the intake of oxygen into the blood and allows muscles to stretch. The increase in oxygen and the musce stretching work together to relieve muscular tension. Exercise raises your general fitness level and increases the heart's ability to pump blood effectively throughout the body. Increased fitness allows you to maintain a steady heart rate and increases your heart's strength.

Exercise also helps you to be able to sleep better which aids in relieving all of these symptoms as well.

Depresssion, anxiety and irritibility are serious signs and symptopms that you need to actively work towards relieving. If you are feeling sad or low there are many things you can do to make yourself feel better. Improving your physical health will improve your mental health as well.

Sunshine, oxygen coursing through our veins and exercise all work together to create these feel-good hormones in the brain naturally. So a brisk walk outdoors each day will help you feel better.

Healthy eating combined with exercise increases your mental and physical health. Fresh fruit, vegetables and lots of water stops our system from slowing down and becoming sluggish. Eat fresh fruit and vegies every day and drink plenty of water to keep your system moving and fluid. Healthy eating feeds your body correctly allowing it to function well.

Socialising with others makes us feel alive, a part of a community and generally makes us feel better. Get out and get involved in community activities and groups. You can combine part of your socialising with some of your exercise by joining a local exercise group, or activity group which gives you the double benefits of being with others while exercising.

Learn more about this author, Cheryl O'Brien.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.