Does anyone here exercise on a regular basis? Do you notice how well it works for you, if at all, f...
Take heart, my friend-exercise is the one thing I can count on to ease my ptsd symptoms.
Walking my doggie or riding my bicycle are among my two favorite ways to do this.
Contributing to this forum is considerably improved, too, as the improved blood flow to my brain allows me better access to my vocabulary. Sounds weird, maybe, but it's true.
I also forget, even if only for a short while, my stressors. I'm a mountain biker, and that sport-the way I ride, that is-doesn't allow for much thought beyond keeping my eyes on the trail so I can "keep the rubber side down," as I like to put it,
You, however, needn't try anything dangerous or overly strenuous. If you do this at a casual pace at first, you'll get a very good idea if this form of stress management is for you.
If so, I encourage you to get out there and do it as much as you can, for the physical benefits can head off or minimize future stresses.
If not, that's okay-there are plenty of other great ways to physically manage your symptoms. Whether you come to enjoy cycling or not, it can be fun to change up your routine now and again.
Good luck getting out there and getting physical with your stress management. It really works, and is great for your body, too. :)
Cycling does it for me. Short rides, long rides, it doesn't matter-it all counts and it feels great, too.
Walking with my dog is another favorite pastime. She's infinitely curious about many things we encounter when we're out, and the distraction cannot be underestimated. Also, when you recover from any exercise you do, make sure to feed your brain well. If you must eat sugary foods afterwards, then use a low glycemic or natural sweetener like agave or honey. And research every aspect of exercise online-the more you know about it, the better it'll be for you.
Also, you can combine your exercise with a partner and make exercise something that'll improve your social skills, too. Cycling, which is my favorite form of exercise, can be done alone or with other(s). I also hike-or just walk!- with my service dog, Sophie. She's always ready to go, and it makes my heart happy to see the happiness that it brings her.
Quite frankly, activity is great in any way, so I wish you the best of luck in finding-and maintaining-a habit of healthy activity that works for you.
