If you do decide to start exercising then see your doctor first. Don’t worry if you stop as you can always start again

Physical exercise is useful if you have anxiety, as the 'fight or flight' build up of tension makes a person ready for action. By being physically active, you are relieving that tension. If you don’t exercise then you’re not burning up the excess stress chemicals in your blood although they will disappear eventually. So don’t panic if you’re not exercising, but it does help. We included this page as we felt that exercise is important to maintaining a healthy mind, if you can manage a small amount of exercise each day, maybe a walk, or even housework, you may find this helps reduce anxiety, and it is good for your general health as well. The key is that some, however small, is better than none. Some people have managed to reduce or even stop medication by exercising (always consult your doctor before reducing medication). It is worth investigating what works for you. If you don’t like a type of exercise then why not try another type of exercise: it doesn't have to be a session in the gym: a walk or hoovering is fine. Remember lots of people are in a constant battle with themselves about exercising and have a ‘start, stop, start’ exercise regime, but for the anxious person, exercise can have real benefits to their mental health in helping them keep anxiety levels down.

This is what the NHS says: Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Not only does regular exercise help to maintain overall fitness and manage weight loss, it can lower the risk of many life-threatening conditions. People who exercise regularly are likely to live longer and enjoy a better quality of life. In fact, studies have shown that being physically unfit is just as dangerous as smoking in terms of lowering life expectancy. Regular exercise also improves mental and emotional health. The chemicals and hormones that are released in the brain through exercise can help deal with stress and promote happiness. All these health benefits are the reason why many people are encouraged to exercise. However, many people think exercise is too expensive or simply takes up too much time. In reality, as little as half an hour of moderate activity every day, such as brisk walking, can be enough to improve health and fitness. There are many different ways to exercise, and it is possible to find something to suit any kind of lifestyle.

As Christians we see ourselves as living healthy lives as God would have wanted us to, he wants the best for us although we don’t beat ourselves up if we don’t exercise, we know that God will still love us just as much.

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12 NIV

A simple prayer:

Dear Jesus, I thank you and put my trust in you, you are always at my side even when feeling desperate; I know that you will never let me down, forgive me for the times that I have disappointed you, guide me and teach me,Please help me to stay healthy, fill me with your power, I pray for healing and peace in the love and assurance that you died and rose again for me, amen

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