How moving your body can calm your mind
February 24, 2026By: Snizhana Weber
Categories: Your Wellness, Prevention
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When I get stressed, my mind races and my body feels tight. Fortunately, getting rid of stress doesn’t need to be hard or time-consuming. Just moving helps me clear the clutter from my mind.
Working out definitely has its benefits, but that’s not what I’m talking about. Even simple movements can help your body and mind handle stress. When you move, your brain creates endorphins, which help you feel happier and calmer.
Moving the body also helps clear the mind. As you walk, stretch or breathe, you focus on what your body is doing instead of what is stressing you out. Over time, moving more can help you sleep better, think more clearly and feel more in control.
Gentle movements work just as well as big exercises when it comes to lowering stress. Even a few minutes can be beneficial. What’s important is to move in ways that make you feel good.
Here are some simple ways to get moving:
- Take a short walk
- Stretch your arms, legs and neck to loosen tight muscles
- Breathe while lifting and lowering your arms
- Try gentle chair yoga stretches
- Move slowly with tai chi or yoga
- Dance to your favorite song
Even a few minutes of these activities can lift your mood. Start small and go at your own pace. The best movements are the ones you keep doing. If you enjoy swimming, go swim! When you move a little each day, your body gets better at handling stress.
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