Swimming as an Exercise Against Stress

Reversing the damage of stress on our bodies due to daily interaction at work, school or home is important.  Stress management is key but also physical exercise.  Exercise not only can help the body reverse the damages of stress but it can also help the brain function at a more healthy level.  Swimming is one such exercise with multiple benefits due to its very nature of less stress on the joints.  It is a great exercise for the elderly and children but also adults in their prime.  Swimming has numerous benefits in helping the body overcome stress and remain healthy.

The article, “From stress relief to managing depression: 10 ways swimming can do wonders for your mind and body” from Stacker Science and Dolphin Pools takes a closer look at the numerous benefits of swimming and stress and depression reduction.  The article lists ten ways swimming as an exercise benefits the body and mind.  In particular, the article discusses the various systems within the body and how swimming helps them improve in relationship to the mind.  The article states,

Swimming has many physical benefits but also is beneficial in reducing stress and depression in all age ranges and persons

 

“Physical activity strengthens your cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems and can improve your mood, and relieve depression. It also boosts the quality of your sleep, increasing energy levels. Those who exercise regularly have a reduced risk of common cancers, including breast and colon cancer. Swimming provides the benefits of physical activity while putting less stress on your joints. This activity works your major muscle groups, and because it is a low-impact form of exercise, those with arthritis or joint pain may want to make swimming their workout of choice. ”

“From stress relief to managing depression: 10 ways swimming can do wonders for your mind and body”  Stacker Science/Dolphin Pools. Oct 8th, 2022.

To read the entire article, please click here

Commentary

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise that provides many benefits for the body and mind. It is a low-impact activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. Swimming is a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness, increase muscle strength and flexibility, and improve joint mobility. It is also an excellent way to reduce stress and promote relaxation.  Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for a number of reasons. First, it is a low-impact activity, meaning that it is easy on the joints and muscles. This makes it ideal for people who are looking for a gentle workout. Second, swimming is a great cardio workout. It gets the heart pumping and the blood flowing, which is great for overall cardiovascular health. Third, swimming is a full-body workout.

Swimming and Stress Reduction

Swimming has long been touted as a means of stress reduction, and for good reason. A few laps in the pool can help to clear your head and relax your body, both of which are essential for reducing stress levels. In addition, the rhythmic nature of swimming can help to lull you into a meditative state, which is also beneficial for stress reduction.   One of the ways it does this is by releasing endorphins, which are hormones that have a natural calming effect. Swimming also helps to lower blood pressure and heart rate, both of which can contribute to feeling less stressed. Additionally, the act of swimming can help to clear your mind and focus your thoughts, which can also lead to reduced stress levels.

Swimming is a great way to get your heart rate up and to improve your cardiovascular health, but did you know that it can also be beneficial for your brain? When you swim, your body releases endorphins, which have been shown to improve mood, increase feelings of well-being, and reduce stress and anxiety. In addition, the act of swimming can help to increase neurogenesis, or the growth of new brain cells.  In this way, it is also extremely beneficial to stress reduction, anxiety or depression.

Making swimming part of your overall exercise routine is an excellent idea especially for those who have a more difficult time running.  It is also a great social opportunity for children to meet others and learn an important life skill.

Conclusion

In conclusion, swimming is a great way to improve your health. It is low-impact and can be done at any age or fitness level. Swimming is also a great way to relieve stress and relax.  swimming is a great way to reduce stress. It is a low-impact activity that can be done by people of all ages and abilities. Swimming is also a great way to get exercise and improve your overall health. So, if you’re looking for a way to reduce stress and improve your health, swimming is a great option.  So, what are you waiting for? Go take a dip!
Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Stress Management.  After completing the required courses, one can apply for certification.  AIHCP has offered the Stress Management Certification for over 20 years and it can be utilized anywhere in the country to enhance a professionals resume.
Stress Management is an important way to manage stress and swimming is just one of many ways to help manage it.  One should take the time, if they have not, to learn how to swim, or if one already knows how to swim, to take advantage of its many benefits.
Additional Resources
“Swim Stress Away: 5 Mental Health Benefits Of Swimming”. Claire McDaniel. May 13th, 2015. Clear Comfort. Access here
“How Swimming Can Help Improve Mental Health (Or Ease Stress)”. Riley Dunn. December 21st, 2021. Swimming World. Access here
“Six ways swimming benefits your mental wellbeing”. Samantha Wild. 26 October 2021. Bupa.  Access here
“The Effect of Swimming on Anxiety-Like Behaviors and Corticosterone in Stressed and Unstressed Rats”. Mohammad Amin Safari,etc, al.  Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Sep; 17(18): 6675.  Access here