Reducing Stress Through Exercise

You've probably heard that one of the many benefits of exercise is stress reduction. A recent study out of the University of Vermont showed that moderate physical activity also improves mood, and that the effects can last for up to 12 hours. That's longer than researchers expected.

After riding an exercise bike for 20 minutes, participants were asked to fill out questionnaires that evaluated their general mood. Compared to the control group, the exercise group showed improved mood after two, four, eight, and 12 hours.

The Mayo Clinic already recommends regular exercise as one way to manage depression symptoms, and the Vermont study only reinforces the link between physical and mental health. It also reminds wellness professionals that exercise has many benefits, and it's important to promote them all.