It is a well know fact that exercise can help in relieving stress but what is possibly much less well known are the scientific reasons for the benefits which we derive from exercise.

Exercise triggers the release of a number of chemicals by the brain. A very good example of this is the 'endorphin high' that many runners experience as the brain produces opiate-like chemicals which act as natural pain killers and which has been very well documented.

The human brain is also responsible for the release of numerous neuro-transmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine all of which have been shown to have beneficial effects as mood elevators. Once more, the effect of low levels of these nero-transmitters in the body in leading to depression, anxiety and sometimes even aggression has been very well documented.

In addition to stimulating the brain into releasing chemicals which are helpful in lowering stress, exercise also lessens the production of some chemicals which are by-products of stress. For instance, when a person is placed under stress the sympathetic nervous system releases chemicals like cortisol and various hormones that, if allowed to accumulate in the blood, may harm the blood vessels and produce scaring and even a narrowing of the arteries.

Exercise can help in solving this particular problem in two different ways. First, exercise actually makes use of these compounds by breaking them down into harmless forms which can be passed out of the body in the urine. Second, a workout helps to strengthen the blood vessels and giving them greater elasticity so that they are able to better withstand attack. One of the more common signs of stress is tense muscles, especially in the calves, shoulders and neck and a workput will assist in loosen these.

In addition to these various chemical effects there are also various psychological benefits that can be gained from having a regular exercise program. Focusing your attention on an exercise program diverts your mind from the whole variety of things that might be producing the stress in your life and it is extremely hard to concentrate on those things which are worrying you and to concentrate on your exercise routine at the same time.

Additionally this effect helps to give your mind the opportunity to create what is known as homeostasis. In simple terms homeostasis is one of the body's feedback mechanisms that acts to return your body to a state of equilibrium and a strenuous workout that takes your mind off your problems also gives this system the time to kick in.

Of course there are various other psychological benefits that follow on from regular exercise like the self-confidence which can be gained from merely improving your overall health and fitness. Here it is a case of 'when you look good then you generally feel good'.

In addition, it helps you to realize that you are applying effort to improve your body and mind and that you are doing something which is positive instead of merely giving in to the sense of helplessness and the resultant passivity which generally go with stress. It is very easy to find that those things in your life that are placing you under stress have become the central focus of your attention and merely relegating them to the back of your mind will normally produce dramatic results.