Most of my clients tell me they are too stressed to find time to workout. While I understand the feeling, I also believe that working out can be a great way to relieve stress.

Yes sometimes you feel like you have too much work to step away. Yes sometimes you have like a bazillion things that you could put before doing something for yourself like working out. Yes sometimes you would prefer to just go straight home after such a long day of work.

But sometimes working out can be just what you need to relieve all the stress!

For one, working out boosts your production of endorphins, which are the brain’s “feel-good neurotransmitters.” While most people are familiar with a “runner’s high,” you can get the same feeling from doing any physical activity that you enjoy!

For two, you can get lost in the workout and forget about all of the stresses of the day. I find that when I do a hard workout all I can think about is the task at hand. Working out is a time for me to just focus on me. It relaxes me and gives me the energy to take on the rest of the day and the rest of the week!

For three (and maybe the most important one!!), working out improves your mood and helps you sleep better, which makes you feel better all around!!! Regular exercise can help you build self-confidence and lower symptoms caused by depression and anxiety, which in turn will help you sleep better. All of this combined will ease your stress levels and make you feel in control of your body and life!

So personally I think all three of these reasons are enough to put up with the “stress” of starting a workout routine! What do you think? Is working out more stressful or more stress relief for you?